Illinois' Ban on the Sale of Ephedra Products
Could Spur Nationwide Trend

The decision by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to sign the nation's first statewide ban on the sale of products containing ephedra could start a nationwide trend as the FDA and federal lawmakers continue to debate over the safety of the herbal stimulant.

photo-1Under Illinois' new law, the sale of ephedra products such as Metabolife 356, made by San Diego-based company Metabolife International, or Stacker 2, manufactured by NVE Pharmaceuticals, is a misdemeanor crime punishable by up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Repeat offenders can face up to five years in prison and a $20,000 …