Athletes’ Stimulant-use Widespread; Parents Should Be Aware Of Danger

            Young athletes across the country are using stimulants and other dietary supplements to boost energy and enhance their athletic performance.  Doctors say stimulants can cause serious side effects and even death if taken before strenuous exercise – such as football practice.

            One of the most common stimulants found in theses products is ephedrine, which can have powerful effects on the nervous system and heart by constricting the blood vessels and increasing the heart rate.  Ephedrine is also listed on product labels as the ingredient Ma Huang.

            Ephedrine was banned by the NCAA and just recently, the NFL banned athletes form endorsing products which contain this ingredient.

            Since 1994, ephedrine – containing products have been liked to at least 80 deaths and at least 1,400 adverse reactions, including high blood pressure, paranoia, heart attack, insomnia, nervousness, strokes and seizures.

            Among the over-the-counter products that can be purchased at nutritional stores, such as GNC include Ripped Fuel, Xenadrine and Hydroxycut.  These products are promoted to boost energy and enhance athletic performance.

            Traces of ephedrine were found in the bodies of two football players who died this year; Devaughn Darling, of Florida State University, and Rashidi Weeler, or Northwestern University.

            It is important to monitor what your children are using; especially young athletes who are using supplements as part of their training regimen. Remember, while they may appear to be safe because they are found in health food stores, these supplements have not been approved by the FDA.