Update 1/20/20. Several people have asked me about the weight loss supplement called Zi Xiu Tang. Let’s now review Zi Xiu Tang, its ingredients and see if its right for you. What you are reading now is the first review of Zi Ziu Tang. There is also an updated review of Zi Xiu Tang. Read this review first which covers the basic ingredients. Then, read the updated review which covers all the other ingredients and how it really works.
Update 4/8/14. The FDA warns people to immediately stop taking Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen weight loss supplements. It tested several Zi Xiu Tang products – including those that were said to be “genuine” and not counterfeit. The FDA found that some products contained not only sibutramine, an illegal weight loss drug but some also contained Phenolphthalein, a chemical that may increase the risk of cancer. See the FDA alert for more information.
Update. 10/24/12. The FDA has determined that Zi Xiu Tang contains an illegal weight loss drug called sibutramine. Do not take Zi Xiu Tang as it can lead to heart problems.
Update 6/26/12. I have written a review of ZXT Gold.
Update 6/18/13. I have written a review of Slim Trim U bee pollen weight loss supplement.
Update 7/25/12. Canadian health authorities have identified 2 drugs in ZXT Gold. See the ZXT Gold review for more information.
Zi Xiu Tang Ingredients
Zi Xiu Tang is composed of:
Bee pollen. One of the websites that sell Zi Xiu Tang says bee pollen is “known to stimulate metabolism” , “eliminate cravings” and “reduce appetite” but when I searched the National Library of Medicine for “bee pollen and metabolism” and “bee pollen and weight loss” no studies showed up. I wasn’t surprised because I've never seen any study showing that bee pollen raises the metabolic rate or promotes weight loss. Bee pollen appears to be the main ingredient in Zi Xiu Tang.
I did uncover a case report of kidney failure in somebody who was using a bee pollen supplement. Bee pollen may also cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Be sure you are not allergic to bee pollen before you try Zi Xiu Tang.
Chinese yam. This name is a little confusing because it also goes by the name “wild yam”. Other names include Rhizoma dioscoreae Dioscorea opposite. when I searched for whether this ingredient might help weight loss, I actually did find something. A study does show that Rhizoma dioscoreae might help weight loss – in mice. Specifically, mice that were fed a high-fat diet.
No study in humans showing a similar effect could be located.
Barbary wolfberry fruit. A more scientific name for this is Lycium barbarum. Many people also know it by its other names, Goji Berry. In a small study titled, Lycium barbarum increases caloric expenditure and decreases waist circumference in healthy overweight men and women: a pilot study, this herb was noted to reduce waist circumference and boost metabolism (by about 10%) more than those who received a placebo. The amount that seemed to garner these effects was 120 ml per day. This study lasted 2 weeks and involved a small number of people (about 15 in each group).
How much Barbary Wolfberry fruit is in Zi Xiu Tang? They don't tell us.
Lotus seed. There is not enough published proof one or another to say what this stuff does.
Dietary fiber. Dietary fiber – like all fiber helps slow digestion and makes people feel full. Fiber also has no calories. These are the reasons why dietitians are always telling people to eat more fruits and vegetables (which have fiber). The problem is how much fiber does Zi Xiu Tang contain? I was unable to find the answer on any of the Zi Xiu Tang websites I looked at.
Some Zi Xiu Tang websites claim that the product can detoxify the body. Detoxify is the new-age word for “laxative” Since Zi Xiu Tang has fiber, it makes sense that it would have a laxative effect. Since the supplement is said to contain no stimulants like caffeine, fiber may be the mystery ingredient behind those who say Zi Xiu Tang promotes weight loss.
Many websites say that no diet is needed when using Zi Xiu Tang. Still, other Zi Xiu Tang websites say that people only need to take Zi Xiu Tang for a month after they reach their goal weight to maintain their weight loss. I'm skeptical of these statements also.
Zi Xiu Tang side effects
Here is a list of potential ZXT side effects.
Does Zi Xiu Tang Work?
People have told me that they have lost weight within Zi Xiu Tang. But based on the ingredients listed, I don’t see how it’s possible. Honestly, I'm skeptical.
- I'm skeptical because of the websites I see selling it. Some websites seem designed to get you to hurry up and buy it now before the price goes up.
- I'm skeptical because some websites say things that are not based in fact (e.g. bee pollen stimulating metabolism).
- I'm skeptical because I can’t discern any scientific reason why any of the ingredients (except fiber) would help weight loss.
- I'm skeptical because I don’t see any peer-reviewed proof on Zi Xiu Tang.
- I'm skeptical because many websites say people don't need to exercise while taking Zi Xiu Tang. This is unhealthy. Any diet that does not incorporate exercise runs the risk of promoting muscle loss. Some websites do advocate eating some extra protein (which can help preserve muscle during dieting) which I like, but leaving out exercise is disturbing.
While I think that fiber may be responsible for any weight loss seen with Zi Xiu Tang supplements, I would like to see an independent laboratory test the product to see if it contains any additional ingredients that are not listed.
If you choose to try Zi Xiu Tang and buy over the internet be certain to ask about any “autoship” programs and see if you can opt-out of this.
Here is my second Zi Xiu Tang review
Read also my review of SlimQuick weight loss supplement.
Michelle says
so from what I see in this picture this is a counterfeit product you are showing. It’s obvious missing things that are normally in the US made one
Joe says
Michelle, dont buy into the counterfeit stuff. I dont believe any of it.
Jen says
“Counterfeit” is used by distributors as a marketing technique. When you enter their “code” it takes you to a Chinese website and allows you to enter a code. This “code” system can be made by anyone and added as a link to their website.
Also, the box design does not matter, because the box design has changed numerous times since zi xiu tang was introduced in the USA. I can name about 4 times probably more that it changed. What I find funny is back in 2010 maybe 2009, the box from the so called authentic company Guangzhou Zi Xiu Tang Biotechnology, Co was all in Chinese!! Don’t be surprised if the box changes again.
Also, zi xiu tang is not made in the USA it comes from China.
tmts says
Actually I am neither. I am a consumer from beepollenbyathena and now a consumer from beepollendiet. I will admit after the recall I was scared to take either product. The energy I get from zi xiu tang doesn’t even begin to compare to how I felt with the ultimate. I felt disoriented and just kind of spacey.
I am however a very good researcher. I take pride in that. Everyone has different reactions to different pills. Everyone. And not everyone should take s diet supplement and I believe that people who don’t consult with their doctor before taking a product. I see reactions all the time with people taking meds that were prescribed to them from their doctor.
It happens. Side effects happen and so do our bodies as we age. I still feel this was all a marketing technique on your part. But that’s just my opinion I guess. I feel that if the fda wanted this product off the market because there was an illegal substance in it they would have the power to do that. They are part of the federal government correct?
Joe says
TMTS, the FDA is limited in what it can do. There are laws the govern supplements. See the supplement questions page of my site for more on this.
Jen says
Thank you for clarifying that. Well if you were a customer of Bee pollen by Athena then you are well aware that they distributed both the Classic zi xiu tang and the Ultimate formula. And I am sure you are also aware of who the Classic zi xiu tang was purchased from since there name was clearly on the bottom of the box. The same reseller you currently purchase from.
Joe is absolutely correct the FDA only has so much control. My new business has nothing to do with this blog nor have I ever attempted to market it on here. You had brought it up. I do not need to do that. My products are safe and clinically studied. Which can not be said for zi xiu tang. You make your own choices and this blog is to raise awareness.
Again, you never answered my question…..where is your proof that zi xiu tang is safe?
tmts says
lol i have no “on paper proof” that this product is safe. but i am however living proof. And if you want to technical — on paper that every single diet pill–heart pill–diabetes pill–impotence pill is safe for everyone to take you will NEVER find that– on paper. everything has a side effect somewhere. just saying–
and yes i am aware that you sold both products. but i steered away from the classic at first because of the price. and i bought the classic from athena and thats how i got the other website– from the bottom of the box. i’m just debating to raise awareness that everyone is different. everybody’s body is different and reacts differently to every pill. i have looked into your “new” products and i must say that they don’t look like anything more than a probiotic to me. but thats just my opinion. and we all have one.
yes, you are exactly right, this blog IS to RAISE AWARENESS –let’s raise awareness that everyone will react differently to medications. lets raise awareness that diet pills aren’t for everyone. we should be raising awareness that the only healthy way to lose weight is diet and exercise but suddenly i see we’ve steered away from that. not everyone can maintain a healthy lifestyle but that’s what this blog is about correct? raising awareness?
i am just raising awareness that i have not had any problems on this pill. thank you.
Jen says
Thank you for proving one of my points about the “authorized” “exclusive” distributor on the bottom of the box. The same product that was tested by the FDA to contain sibutramine. This will also help clear up a lot of others concerns regarding “counterfeit” zi xiu tang. This blog is titled Zi Xiu Tang how it works, but I do agree that exercise and healthy diet are essential:-) I have always been a supporter of this. There are numerous blogs online about health, diet, and exercise. I also agree everyone will react differently to supplements.
The point is that there was an ingredient (sibutramine) being added without knowledge and being distributed to customers who believe what they are taking is listed on the box. This can cause for some serious effects especially those who are taking other medications and have underlying health issues. It is not only wrong it is dangerous. As I am sure you would have to agree with that. The first thing a customer will do when looking for supplements is check the label.
tmts says
you right about people checking labels before consuming anything.. 100% correct. but I have yet to see any documentation from any laboratory stating that zi xiu tang contains the drug besides what you have told them. and im sure if that drug was banned in 2010 they “being the federal government” would find a way for the product not to enter into the u.s.
Jen says
All of the proof that you need is located in the links below: (FDA is advising…. And FDA LAB RESULTS CONCLUDE…) This is all a consumer needs and if they wish to know more contact the FDA or have the product tested yourself, in one of my above comments I recommended a lab or search for one yourself.
As a company we have done our part. And as for the FDA stopping it from entering the country is easier said then done. Especially when companies will not label the box that is going through customs zi xiu tang. It is not just zi xiu tang, there are many warnings from the FDA about certain supplements but most you can still purchase. And this case on zi xiu tang is not a closed case as of now and further investigations are still being done. The FDA will tell you the same thing. But that is all I can say regarding that. Like I said before, no matter what is said, there will still be consumers who will take it no matter what.
And being that sibutramine is addictive it seems to cloud judgement at times. I would recommend contacting the FDA with your concerns because it seems that you are not getting the answers you want or just refuse to believe it. I just hope that continuing to take zi xiu tang will not cause any medical issues down the road.
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/MedicationHealthFraud/ucm325537.htm
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm326341.htm
tmts says
Jen-
i took ultimate formula for a total of 3 weeks. i had severe headaches, neck pain, constipation. i decided to quit taking it because i was on my way home from work and could not open eyes wide enough to see the road because of my headache.
i let my body rest for a month when a friend of mine told me about zi xiu tang. i did not have any other side effect other than dry mouth.
what i don’t get is when zixiutangsuccess llc recalled the ultimate formula and it was “found” to have sibutramine in it and taken off the shelves– you said that your product was tested before distribution to consumers? or was that just meant for zi xiu tang? because if your product was tested prior to consumers getting in their hands the whole recall would not have existed correct?
also you place blame on all the chinese manufacturers when it was only found in the ultimate formula who was manufactured by a completely different company from zi xiu tang.
i am just stating facts that i have done my research too. i am a nurse and since becoming a nurse have looked into everything i consume.
i believe zi xiu tang was tested back in october as well. if it was found to be harmful and contain sibutramine i don’t understand why its still being manufactured. thats all.
Jen says
Tmts,
I am glad you discontinued the Ultimate. So you had dry mouth taking zi xiu tang? Hmmm… Well as a nurse I am sure you are aware that the ingredients listed on the box do not cause dry mouth. The Ultimate formula was NOT the only product that was recalled and contained sibutramine it was also the Classic Zi Xiu Tang. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm326267.htm
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/MedicationHealthFraud/ucm325537.htm
I am sure you saw the FDA warning on zi xiu tang. If a manufacturer is adding an illegal ingredient without knowledge who is to Blame? The Ultimate was also manufactured in China under a different manufacturer so it just proves that not only one Chinese manufacturer but two were adding this ingredient. And yes a recall is conducted after testing is complete. It is still being sold because it was a voluntary recall by our company.
Why are a lot of supplements that are harmful still being sold online? That is why a warning was put out there. And am I glad we did. I just hope other resellers will see the same but it appears that some are brainwashed by the main reseller as well as China. Very unfortunate. What proof do you have that it doesn’t contain sibutramine? A “counterfeit” code? Lol. That you enter numbers onto a Chinese website!
Like I said you want proof you can have it tested. Or maybe your so called “exclusive” reseller can have testing done for her resellers. It ultimately is their responsibility. I mean what consequence would China have absolutely none…..
Jen says
I have a feeling you are either a reseller of this product or just really like it and refuse to accept the truth…..
Jen says
Tmts,
When a company initiates a recall, the FDA must also investigate and collect product to be tested as well. Whether you want to believe it or not is your choice. The truth of the matter is Chinese manufacturers are placing illegal ingredients into their supplements. Then companies will try to cover up with “authenticity” and “counterfeit” codes along with “authorized” resellers.
I am so glad that we could make others aware of this. We had a very large customer base that decided to discontinue using it and was very grateful for that. I am not against weight loss supplements completely as I feel they can be helpful. We did introduce other supplements that are made in the USA and are safe for our customers. But, this blog is not meant for promoting or marketing it is to make others aware of harmful zi xiu tang.
Here is what I don’t understand, instead of continuing to convince others that zi xiu tang is safe, why doesn’t the “exclusive” have each shipment from Guangzhou Zi Xiu Tang Biotechnology tested here in the USA before distributing it??? Small price to pay for others safety. But, I can understand why it hasn’t been provided yet…..
Anonymous says
I believe, if you look back to 2011, you will see “Julie” the distributor posted about having her products tested. But don’t take my word for it, go see for yourself.
tmts says
not to be the Debbie Downer here but isn’t true that zixiutangsuccess LLC initiated the recall and not the FDA? From what I’ve read that’s what I understand. I have had nothing but success with these pills.and I will back them up 100 percent. I also think it’s funny that that same company is now selling and all American made of product and slamming the Chinese manufacturers. Was that part of their marketing plan for the new stuff?
I just think it’s a little coincidental that all this happened within 6 months. The two major sellers of the ultimate formula are the ones that initiated the recall but now they come out with a new product? Hmmm seems a little fishy to me.
Tiffany says
Hi, I wanted to share my story, I thought it might be beneficial. I started taking to ZXT about 2 1/2 weeks ago. I wanted to drop about 30 lbs and I thought I would give it a try. I’ve very active and enjoy exercise, but I will admit I have terrible eating habits. I did my research before hand, and I read many reviews. Yes, I did read so negative review, but I decided to give them a try. At the time I felt that the positive reviews outweighed the negative.
I ordered the pills from an so called “official” website, Once I received the pills I check the website to ensure they were authentic; it said I was good to go.
The first week went just fine. I did notice that my appetite was suppressed and bathroom routine did make a dramatic change, which was expected. However I was down 8 lbs in the first week. The only annoying side effect the first week was the horrible acne break outs on my face and back, but after reading this was caused by a detoxifying process.
The 2nd week Is when I started to feel the real effect of these pills. I experienced some crazy side effects. I was very irritable, which is not my nature. I experienced very vivid dreams; I even woke up a few times searching for weird objects in my bed. My body started to become very achy, especially my upper arms and the center of my back. My chest felt very tight and I had a constant headache. When I exercised or became active in any way I felt as if I could pass out. This is coming from a girl that runs 3-5 miles twice a week. I decided to take my blood pressure for a few days and I noticed a large increase. My bottom number went from 71 to 111 4 hours after taking it. I felt horrible, but down 12lbs.
I am very in tune to my body, but I guess vanity has a little control over all of us. I found out the hard way that there really is no substitute for eating right and exercise. I hope this is the motivation I needed to get started the right way.
Yes, I do realize that some do not experience these side effects, but every body is different and some of us are more in tune to than others. I hope this review is useful to others.
Thanks,
Tiffany
Joe says
Tiffany, thanks for telling your story. I do hope you are feeling better now. I would point out that the acne you experienced was not to do any “detoxifying” process. I dont know what caused the acne but it makes me wonder what else is in zi xiu tang that they are not telling us about.
alex says
does this pill affect birth control? ive been spotting on this zxt gold.
Joe says
Alex, im not sure
Jay says
I took ZXT in 2010. It worked wonders, I lost 18lbs but the diarrhea was an inconvenience. I didn’t have to work out to lose weight but I was too tired to do it anyway. Any physical activity resulted in increased heart-rate, dizziness and energy depletion. Insomnia was an issue too.
What I found was this: If started the day with a multi-vitamin daily at least two hours before the ZXT, This would combat the fatigue. NEVER take ZXT after 12:30-1:00pm, because it’s difficult to get to sleep before midnight. And if I couldn’t get two in before 12:30pm then I only took ONE. Also know your own body: If I eat small meals/snacks throughout the day, I remain full so I’m fine. if I ate once then skipped meals, because I felt full, my body wanted to eliminate.
This is my normal state with or without supplements. I stopped taking ZXT when It was discovered that I had a thyroid issue. My endocrinologist says that it is unrelated as thyroid issues are considered hereditary.
That’s my story.
Anonymous says
Joe
I dont understand why people do not get the reason why these pills work. If they are working at all it is because it contains the subutramine in it. If it does not work then it has nothing so bad in it but why take it if you aren’t losing weight. Whether they are counterfeits or not… these pills only cause you to lose weight so remarkably because it has that added drug. It is really unfortunate that this drug has such bad side affects. It really would be the cure for obesity !
Joe says
I know. I think its a combination of some people not believing their pills have subutramine (because they have the so-called “real zi xiu tang”) or that they think nothing will happen. I think there are others who have no idea about the FDA warning letter and assume that because its being sold that it has to be safe. Either way, Im glad people are commenting here because its a resource I hope those people find if they go online looking for answers.
Terry says
Just want to better inform you about zi xiu tang. First yes the fda does have a warning about zi xiu tang. This is because the product they tested was counterfeit. If you look at the warning they have the website that was selling the counterfeit product.
Because of the high volume of counterfeit distributors, the real zi xiu tang was taken of the market. now that they have came up with ways to fight against counterfeit products they have put it back on the market.
The main manufacturer in china has only allowed 1 main distributor in the usa. That distributor sells to authorized resellers. So if your not getting your product from 1 of these authorized resellers it is most likely counterfeit. For the list of authorized resellers and more information about counterfeit products and how to know the difference please visit link deleted. The full list of authorized resellers and there websites are listed there. but as far as weight loss goes it definitely works I lost 31lbs in 6 weeks. I feel Great
Joe says
Terry, who is that main distributor in the USA? what steps does that distributor have to go through to be the official us distributor? if you can tell me that, Id appreciate it.
I honest don’t buy the idea of counterfeit pills anymore but I do believe there other pills made by companies that are trying to capitalize on the hype of this product.
CCap says
I order my pills from bricknutrishop.com can you tell me if they are the bad ones?
Joe says
CCAP. They say on their website that their stuff has Senna which as I pointed out is a hard core laxative. re-read what I wrote about senna. Nobody can tell you if what you ordered are the “bad ones” because nobody is testing them. Don’t believe the hype about these pills. I still believe that other than being a laxative there is no way zi xiu tang works without added help from something else not listed.
Ccap says
I wish it worked like a laxative. I did lose 5 lbs in 3 weeks with no exersize. I like that it takes away that bloating feeling. Doesn’t make me hungry and gives me energy. But I hate the insomnia. I did ask the place I bought it from about what I read and they advised me they were fine. This is an actual store why would they sell bad stuff if they are in business for years?
Joe says
Ccap, I can only give you my personal opinions. The laxative effect is the only way I can see how it might work. if it works and is not that then I don’t have a clue. Those guys do say their stuff has senna, which is a laxative so..? i really hope you don’t have any side effects. I advise you stop it if you feel anything fishy to you.
B jones. says
I have been taking this for 1 and half months and I have lost 12 lbs and feel wonderful. I am 5 ft 2 did weigh 138.8 and I am now at 126. I do have cotton mouth but drink a lot of water during the day. I eat healthy my snack is jello or yogurt. Oatmeal every morning protein shake total soy for lunch and I eat dinner. I don’t over eat because of the bee pollen. I do go about four days normal bowels and then four days loose. It comes in cycles. I want to loose about four more pounds and then only maintain. No I have not exercised. This is true information from my experience. I am sorry so of you had a bad one.
Joe says
Bjones, it sounds like you are eating pretty healthy which Im sure contributes to your weight loss. A lot of the weight you lost is water given its been 12 pounds in about a month and a half. YOu should exercise because by not exercising you are also losing some muscle, which will not come back (we cant grow back muscle fibers that have been lost). I am happy you have not had any side effects – although your dry mouth stil concerns me – and I hope you continue to be side effect free. There is no guarantee though.
Margie says
Okay so I have been taking this for about 3-4 days now, I have NOT experienced ANY bowel moevements since I started taking it, nor have I had cotton mouth like MANY people have warned me about… Does that mean that it just isn’t going to work for me? Like i said MANY people have recommended this to me, so I was finally so EXCITED about it…. but this is nothing like they said would happen?
Joe says
Margie, your different side effects from your friends is a testimant that different batches of the product likely contain different things. Remember the FDA pointed out that zi xiu tang had a weight loss drug (thats illegal for health reasons) so thats why it worked. See this FDA letter http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/MedicationHealthFraud/ucm325537.htm
I don’t know whats in the stuff you are taking so I can only reiterate my opinion which is, I would not take it.
Ashley bee says
So if you’re searching this you’re probably thinking about trying it. Let me just tell you my experience. First I should say that I have ulcerative colitis. I’m planning to go on vacation next month and wanted to loose some weight. A few people I know have taken it and lost weight fast!
Today is my 5th day and I take 1 capsule every morning at 7:15. I was nervous starting it because I know it causes diarrhea and that’s not good for someone with UC. But I was desperate and couldn’t wait to loose some weight. I started Sunday and I felt fine, Monday I had no bowel movements at all and was very excited! Tuesday I had 6 very loose bowels and had no appetite. I couldn’t eat more than 1 hard boiled egg.
That whole day I only ate 1 egg, a half of a yogurt, some m&m’s ( which I instantly paid for in the bathroom) and a few sips of a protein shake. Wednesday I had 8 bowels and a few with urgency! I knew I was not eating enough and I felt dizzy and weak.
My stomach felt so empty but I felt like all food was disgusting. But I was happy to see already I had lost 4 lbs! I ate an egg and crackers with cheese that day. Already feeling tired and sluggish. I couldn’t force myself to eat.
Idk what it is in these pills but I had no desire to eat and no appetite at all! I had stomach pain during my bowel movements and overall felt very weak and tired all day. I was very nervous that I was loosing all of my electrolytes and I knew I needed to eat protein. I drank a cup of Gatorade and couldn’t eat dinner. Felt sick and went to bed early.
Thursday (today) I woke up through the night and had to run to the bathroom, when I woke up at 7 I had bad stomach pains on the toilet for 20 minutes. I couldn’t get ready for work and the next time I went there was blood in my stool. Not to mention since yesterday I’ve been using desitin because I was sore from going so often.
I called out of work and did not take my single pill of bee pollen today. I was able to drink a cup of Gatorade but I haven’t eaten yet today. My most recent bowel movement was 45 minutes ago and there was more blood. I felt so dizzy like I was going to pass out. I didn’t take a shower yet because I’m scared I will. I just weighed myself and now im down 10 lbs! I’m going to try and eat something now.
If you have colitis, ulcerative colitis or chrones disease take my advice and DON’T take zi xiu tang!!
I would rather be 10 lbs heavier than to feel this way!!
Joe says
Ashley please dont take them anymore. throw them away. I recommend everybody throw zi xiu tang away.
Lauren says
I feel that there has to be a controlled substance in this drug due to the extreme appetite suppressant effect it has. I used to take adderal and it reminds me a lot of that drug.
Lauren says
I just started this product 13 days ago and I feel energized, my appetite has decreased and I have lost 9 pounds. If they had an illegal drug in them then how would you be able to order it on the main website?
Joe says
Laruen, When it comes to supplements, companies are on the honor system. We take their word that they are putting what they say they are in their products. the FDA etc does not check to see they really are. The FDA does not inspect supplement facilities to double check on this – and this is especially true for companies in other countries.
Lorie says
Thank you so much. I’m going to go ahead and report it, because I was in great health prior to, and since the stroke and quitting the ZXT Gold, my blood pressure is perfect. Perhaps it can save a life.
Cheryl says
Joe, If you read my comment carefully, you will see that what I said was ther is no proof that sibutramine “leads to” any heart problem. What the research has shown is that it may, in some individuals, increase blood pressure.
For persons who have high blood pressure or other health conditions, this poses an increased risk. Also, the research I’ve read about the studies done on the control groups shows that it was the groups with those health risks who experienced the 16% increased risk.
My stand still is that people have the right to know what they are taking. I know that sibutramine is a DRUG not a supplement and hence I am against it being hidden in them and not declared on the label.
However, I am not against other drugs that pose a risk of increasing blood pressure if the benefits outweigh the risk. A case in point. It has been proven that certain pain killers have detrimental affects on the liver or kidneys. Likewise many antidepressants contain the same warnings.
illions of individuals in the U.S. take these (with Knowledge) to improve their quality of life while accepting the risk that goes with this decision. I stand by my previous posts. Regards
Joe says
Cheryl we are in total agreement that its all about benefits vs risks (everything has side effects) and people do have the right to know exactly what is in the supplements they take.
Cheryl says
Lori: Please take the time to report your experience to the FDA. On their web site you can report what happened to you. The FDA will investigate and make sure that ZXT Gold does not contain sibutramine. This take some time, as I have gone through this process for other supplements. Help save someone elses life. Take the time to do it. You will be doing people a favor.
Joe says
Lori, here is information on the form to use to report side effects from supplements to the FDA
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/HowToReport/DownloadForms/default.htm
You can mail or fax the form to the FDA. To fax the form, here is the # : 1-800-332-0178.
I have also added this information to my FAQ Page too.
Lorie says
I’m 36 and I started taking ZXT Gold in February of 2012. It caused multiple side effects…dry mouth, sweating profusely, dehydration, etc. However, I lost weight, so I kept taking it. Around May, I chose to start the advanced version, the ZXT Infinity. This is when things got really bad.
All the side effects got worse. I couldn’t even now my lawn without feeling like I was going to die from exertion. One day, I went for a rock climb, and about 20 minutes in, I got a near heat stroke if not a real heat stroke. The next day (still taking that supplement) started having incidences where my throat would close up while I was eating!
It literally made food stuck in my esophagus! My blood pressure, of which I’d NEVER watched before shot up to 140 over 95 when I took it at my moms and remained high thereafter. Therefore, I completely quit taking it. Within a day, all of my symptoms were gone. I kept track of my blood pressure and it went back down to 110 over 68.
This is pathetic, but because I gained back 10 lbs, I once again started the ZXT Gold in August.
On August 16, I had a stroke and ended up intubated for 2 days in the CCU. There’s been no explanation for my stroke, in spite of the state of the art tests ran and I told them about the bee pollen supplement.
The Ambulance driver went on immediate alert and supposedly has seen multiple cases end up in the ER with that drug. My doctors informed that there’s no way of knowing for certain the cause, but made sure u quit taking it.
Let me just add that I’ve only ever been about 15-20 lbs overweight. I’m health, or I was, and physically active. Since I have no proof of this being the cause, I can only say for myself, that I know my body and when I was taking that product, I’ve never felt worse.
I personally know this led to my stroke. Be careful, that’s all I’ll add. Thank you.
Joe says
Lori, SO SORRY that you had a stroke!!! I wish the FDA would do more to protect people from things like this – and people who go on to sell these products.