First Nationwide Class Action on Behalf of All Ephedra Users Filed Against Supplement Makers

CHICAGO - The first nationwide class action suit filed on behalf of all ephedra users asserts claims against sixteen manufacturers of products containing the herbal stimulant and seeks to recover damages for injuries and death allegedly caused by the substance as well as restitution, refunds and injunctive and declaratory relief. Jacquelyn Castillo, et al., v. Metabolife International, et al., No. 03-CV-3145 (N.D. Ill.).

The proposed nationwide class described in the May 13 complaint claims that the manufacturers failed to adequately warn consumers of the dangers of ephedra and misrepresented the safety and efficacy of the herbal stimulant in advertisements and …