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Hypertensive Urgency Associated With Xenadrine EFX Use.
Jivan Moaddeb1, Toyin S Tofade, Micheal B Bevins
1Johnston Health Systems, Clayton, NC, USA.
Journal of Pharmacy Practice
|June 17, 2011
Summary
Xenadrine EFX, a weight loss supplement containing synephrine, may cause dangerous increases in blood pressure (hypertensive urgency). Patients taking this ephedra-free product experienced severe hypertension, highlighting potential cardiovascular risks.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Herbal Medicine
Background:
- Ephedra-containing supplements have been removed from the market.
- Manufacturers now produce ephedra-free weight loss formulations.
- Xenadrine EFX is an ephedra-free product containing caffeine, guarana, and bitter orange (synephrine).
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of hypertensive urgency associated with Xenadrine EFX.
- To highlight the potential cardiovascular risks of synephrine-containing supplements.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient presenting with hypertensive urgency.
- Analysis of the patient's medication history, including Xenadrine EFX.
- Blood pressure monitoring and management.
- Naranjo probability score assessment.
Main Results:
- A patient taking Xenadrine EFX for two weeks developed hypertensive urgency (BP 234/130 mm Hg).
- Blood pressure normalized after discontinuing Xenadrine EFX and initiating medical treatment.
- The Naranjo probability score indicated a probable adverse drug reaction.
Conclusions:
- Xenadrine EFX, due to its synephrine content, may cause significant cardiovascular changes.
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for hypertensive urgency in patients using Xenadrine EFX or similar synephrine-containing products.
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