Ephedra use in athletic and military populations with policy recommendations.

摘要

Ephedra, also called Ma huang, is a botanical product derived from Ephedra sinica and other Ephedra spp. In recent years ephedra products have been extensively promoted to aid weight loss, enhance sports performance, and increase energy. Usage of ephedra products in the United States was highly prevalent, particularly in athletic and military organizations. In December, 2003, the FDA issued a consumer alert on the safety of dietary supplements containing ephedra. The alert advised consumers to immediately stop buying and using ephedra products due to an "unreasonable risk of illness or injury." Although the resultant ban will remove ephedra-containing supplements from most U.S. retail shelves by March 2004, many alternative sources for ephedra products will still exist. This suggests that ephedra will continue to be sold and used by these same populations to maintain their weight loss or enhance performance. In these circumstances, we will need a comprehensive, systematic method of surveilling and educating these populations to insure their safety and continued health.