Buy Ephedra

Even though ephedra is banned in the United States, you can still buy it on the Internet. Some online retailers may be operating from foreign countries (where it is legal to make and sell ephedra) or some retailers may be operating illegally in the United States. You should be cautious before you buy ephedra off the Internet, as these products may be contaminated with heavy metals, prescription drugs, or other potentially dangerous substances.

 

Can I Buy Ephedra?

Yes, a quick search on the Internet reveals that you can indeed purchase ephedra, even though it has been banned in the United States. There is no shortage of Web sites selling ephedra products.
 

Why Can I Buy Ephedra If It Was Banned?

Contrary to what you may read on the Internet, the ephedra ban is still in place, and it is illegal for ephedra to be sold in the United States. However, many online retailers completely disregard laws and regulations (which is why you can buy prescription-only medications without a prescription over the Internet as well). Some of these Web sites may be operating from foreign countries, and some may be in the United States (but are blatantly ignoring Unites States laws).
 

Is It Safe to Buy Ephedra?

It is definitely not safe to buy ephedra. Ephedra was banned for very good reasons (because it can be very dangerous). Also, any manufacturer that makes and sells a product illegally cannot be assumed to be trustworthy or honest. There is no way to know for sure if the ephedra product you buy actually contains the amount of ephedra that is labeled on the bottle (or even contains ephedra at all). The product could also be contaminated with heavy metals, prescription drugs, or other substances.
 
You must ask yourself if it is really worth it to risk your health for the chance to lose a few pounds. Remember, studies have shown that weight loss with ephedra is generally quite modest (around a pound a month). The risks of using ephedra greatly outweigh any possible benefits, which is exactly why ephedra was banned in the United States.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;