N.Y. Becomes Third State to Ban Ephedra

N.Y. Becomes Third State to Ban Ephedra

By MICHAEL GORMLEY
The Associated Press
Monday, November 3, 2003; 6:40 PM

ALBANY, N.Y. - New York became the third state Monday to ban ephedra, an over-the-counter herbal supplement linked to scores of deaths.
The law, signed by Gov. George Pataki, includes a fine of up to $500 for each sale of the supplement. Ephedra's prescription sales are not affected. The law takes effect immediately.

Manufacturers of ephedra are facing lawsuits and a possible ban by the Food and Drug Administration. Illinois already banned the substance, and California Gov. Gray Davis signed a law last month that will ban ephedra sales beginning in January.

In May, Florida joined New Jersey in banning ephedra sales to minors. Broad bans are under consideration in Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Jersey and Hawaii.

In June, the federal government began building a case that could lead to banning ephedra, which is used to lose weight and boost athletic performance and has been linked to scores of deaths, according to the FDA.

The Ephedra Education Council, an industry-funded group, has said the supplement is safe when used correctly. The group also said there is no clinical study that shows the supplement causes harm.

The herb is marketed under brands that include Stacker 2, Stacker 3, Ripped Fuel and Xenadrine.

Among the deaths blamed on ephedra was that of Steve Bechler, a 23-year-old pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles. He died of heat stroke in February during spring training. The medical examiner said ephedra contributed to Bechler's heatstroke.

View Files Sorted By Office: Consumers Union OPI, New York - Washington DC Office
West Coast Regional Office - Southwest Regional Office - Consumer Policy Institute

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