Health Canada warns of diet drug danger

Date: Dec. 3, 1999
Time: 12:20 pm

The Health Canada warning comes on the heels of a similar move by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the US, which reports that several Americans had abnormal thyroid function test results while using weight loss products containing the hormone. The FDA said several people taking Triax, a "metabolic accelerator," sought medical help after experiencing severe diarrhea, fatigue, lethargy or profound weight loss. No adverse reactions have been reported in Canada.

Canadian officials warn consumers to stop using the product immediately and consult their physician, particularly if they are experiencing adverse effects such as insomnia, nervousness, sweating and diarrhea.

While not approved for sale in Canada, health officials state that dietary supplements containing tiratricol are being sold through the Internet by several companies. Officials know of 2 specific products, Triax, and T3 Metabolite, but warn that other companies may be selling similar products under different product names.

The FDA has classified Triax as an unapproved new drug -- the same status it holds here in Canada -- that contains a "potent thyroid hormone". Several American companies who manufacture products containing tiratricol have agreed to cease distribution as the FDA considers further action

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