Debate on Possible Ephedra Ban Heard On Capitol Hill

photo-1WASHINGTON - A possible nationwide ban of over-the-counter products containing ephedra could be instituted if government health officials find that it can satisfy the requirements of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994.

According to Food and Drug Commissioner Mark McClellan, M.D., Ph.D., who testified on July 24 before a federal panel on Capitol Hill, the agency is in the "final stages" of determining whether to ban the sale of products containing the herbal stimulant.

McClellan informed the House of Representatives' Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations during the two-day hearings that he wanted …