[Posted 11/26/2014]

AUDIENCE: Consumer

ISSUE: FDA is advising consumers not to purchase or use Slim Vie. FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that Slim-Vie contains sibutramine. Sibutramine is a controlled substance that was removed from the market in October 2010 for safety reasons. The product poses a threat to consumers because sibutramine is known to substantially increase blood pressure and/or pulse rate in some patients and may present a significant risk for patients with a history of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke. This product may also interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking.

BACKGROUND: Slim Vie is promoted and sold for weight loss on various websites, and possibly in some retail stores.

RECOMMENDATION: Do not to purchase or use Slim Vie. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

[11/25/2014 - Public Notification - FDA] [11/25/2014 - Tainted Weight Loss Products - FDA]