Local Doctor Urges FDA To Take Ephedra Off Market

One local doctor is urging the Federal Drug Administration to take products containing Ephedra off the market.

Dr. Hisham Hakim says Ephedra poses serious health risks

The herb is used in several products including diet pills and cold medicines. Hakim says several studies have linked Ephedra to strokes, heart attacks, seizures and even sudden death.

"I had an encounter with somebody who used Ephedra the first time, as a matter of fact. He had sudden death, and he was a young fellow," Hakim said.

Currently, health officials in Canada are requesting a recall of products containing Ephedra.