US government health officials are announcing the recall of a popular weight loss pill, after reports of liver damage and other health problems. Food and Drug Administration officials said Friday the manufacturer of Hydroxycut has launched a recall of the dietary supplement, used by people trying to shed pounds, and by body builders to sharpen their muscles.
Hydroxycut is advertised as being made from natural ingredients. It accounts for about 90% of the market for weight loss supplements, with sales of about 1 million bottles a year. Dietary supplements are not as tightly regulated by the government as medications. Manufacturers do not need FDA approval ahead of time before marketing their products. (More diet pills stories.)