Herbal Ecstasy Dangerous, Fda Warns

The government moved Wednesday to curb sales of an herb offering Generation Xers a “natural high,” telling consumers not to buy such dietary supplements as Herbal Ecstasy that contain the stimulant ephedrine.

The supplements are advertised to young people - sometimes as a “natural” alternative to illegal drugs - promising euphoria, heightened sexual awareness and enhanced athletic performance.

The FDA has learned of 15 people who died after taking ephedrine-containing supplements and has received almost 400 other reports of side effects, from heart attacks and seizures to psychosis.

So the agency warned consumers not to buy or use the supplements and is collecting coroners’ reports and other evidence in an effort to take regulatory action against manufacturers.