[11-17-2023] The Food and Drug Administration is advising consumers not to purchase or use Notoginseng Formula Special Gout Granule, a product promoted and sold to treat gout and for pain relief on various websites, including www.ebay.com and possibly in some retail stores.

FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that Notoginseng Formula Special Gout Granule contains dexamethasone and diclofenac which are not listed on the product label. Consumers taking Notoginseng Formula Special Gout Granule should immediately consult with their health care professional to safely discontinue use of this product. The risks of withdrawal from corticosteroids should be assessed by a health care professional. Abrupt discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (commonly referred to as NSAID). NSAIDs may cause increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, as well as serious gastrointestinal damage, including bleeding, ulceration, and fatal perforation of the stomach and intestines. This hidden drug ingredient may also interact with other medications and significantly increase the risk of adverse events, particularly when consumers use multiple NSAID-containing products.

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions. Corticosteroid use can impair a person’s ability to fight infections and can cause high blood sugar levels, muscle injuries and psychiatric problems. When corticosteroids are taken for a prolonged period, or at high doses, they can suppress the adrenal gland. Only licensed health care professionals can evaluate patients for the risk or existence of adrenal suppression. In addition, the undeclared dexamethasone in Notoginseng Formula Special Gout Granule may cause serious side effects when combined with other medications.

Health care professionals and consumers should report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report online at MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form, or;
• Download and complete the form, then submit it via fax at 1-800-FDA-0178.

Note: This notification is to inform the public of products marketed as dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drug ingredients and chemicals. These products are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being “all natural.” FDA is unable to test and identify all products marketed as dietary supplements that have potentially harmful hidden ingredients. Consumers should exercise caution before purchasing any product in the above categories.

Refer to the links below for more information:

• Medication Health Fraud
• Tainted Arthritis/Pain Products
• Dietary Supplements