State Checking For Banned Product

HARTFORD (AP) — Officials from the state Department of Consumer Protection are conducting a sweep of health clubs and convenience stores in Connecticut to make sure they are free of products containing ephedra.

Ephedrine supplements were widely used for weight loss and bodybuilding, but have been linked to 155 deaths, including that of Baltimore Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler.

The Food and Drug Administration banned all dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids on April 12.

Consumer Protection Commissioner Edwin R. Rodriguez said agents will be checking store shelves, and any store still selling products containing ephedra will face sanctions.

“Based on complaints and our investigations, we know that some ephedra-containing supplements are still on the market in Connecticut,” Mr Rodriguez said Tuesday.

After years of fighting manufacturers over the risks, the FDA announced in December that it was banning the sale of the amphetaminelike herb — the first such ban of a dietary supplement.