Libipower Plus recalled due to potentially dangerous ingredient

The manufacturer Haloteco announced a nationwide voluntary recall today of the dietary supplement Libipower Plus after the FDA found that the product contained the prescription drug tadalafil (Cialis). Tadalafil, a drug approved to treat erectile dysfunction, is not listed on the product’s label and poses a threat to consumers taking nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, used by people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. The interaction can cause blood pressure levels to drop to a dangerous level, says the FDA.

Libipower Plus is sold through distributors online and in retail stores in California. The FDA advises consumers to stop using this product immediately and to contact their doctor if they experience any problems that may be related to taking the supplement, and to report such adverse events to the FDA’s MedWatch Program. Consumers with questions may also contact Haloteco Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at (213) 820-9523.

In a recent report on dietary supplements, we caution against using questionable supplements and remind you to look for the U.S. Pharmacopeia's USP Verified mark, which assures that the product has the declared ingredients in the stated amounts, does not contain harmful levels of contaminants, and has passed other quality measures. And to avoid dangerous herb-drug interactions, be sure to inform your doctor of any supplements you’re taking.

—Ginger Skinner

Read more on how to cut your risk of taking dangerous supplements, and take a look at our Interaction Checker(subscribers only) to find out which natural medicines and supplements might interact with your prescription drugs.