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...Perper, M.D., chief medical examiner Broward County, Fla.
Soon after Bechler's death at age 23, minor league baseball banned ephedra, joining other sports organizations that had already banned its use--the National Football League, the National Collegiate Athletic Association, and the International Olympic Committee.
Health officials recently cautioned American consumers against using ephedra-containing products, especially if strenuous exercise is involved, or in combination with other stimulants such as caffeine. Because ephedra is an adrenaline-like stimulant, it can have potentially dangerous effects on the nervous system and heart.
A naturally occurring substance derived from ma huang, a Chinese herbal medicine, ephedra has been promoted to help people lose weight, enhance athletic performance, and increase energy. Its principal active ingredient is a chemical called ephedrine.
Because ephedra is an herb, it is considered a dietary supplement regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. Under that law, the FDA does not...
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