FDA Warning: Supplements May Have Hidden Ingredients

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers about dangerous hidden ingredients in some supplements.

These supplements are found the with variations of the names “Artri” or “Ortiga.”

Some specific products are found under the following names:

• Artri Ajo King
• Artri King
• Ortiga Mas Ajo Rey
• Ortiga Mas Ajo Rey Extra Forte

Promoted as treatments for arthritis, muscle pain, osteoporosis, bone cancer and other conditions, these supplements were being sold on various websites and in some retail stores.

The FDA warned the public because these products had potentially dangerous hidden ingredients that were not listed on the product labels.

The agency recommended immediately talking to your health care provider if you are currently taking these products. Ask your health care provider how to safely discontinue taking these products — sudden stopping of some of these drugs can be dangerous.

Some ingredients that have been found in Artri and Ortiga products include the following:

• Dexamethasone (a type of steroid)
• Diclofenac sodium (an anti-inflammatory drug)
• Methocarbamol (a muscle relaxant)

Not only do these ingredients come with their own potential side effects and serious risks, but they can also interact with other medications you are taking.

Some risks include the potential for heart-related events and stomach bleeding or ulceration.

Since the FDA issued the first warning earlier this year, the agency has received adverse event reports, including reports of liver toxicity and death, after the use of Artri King products.

If you or a loved one are taking any of these products, the FDA advised reaching out to your health care provider right away to determine next steps.