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Hydroxycut and Liver Health Risks

Hydroxycut and Liver Health Risks
Olivia Brooks

By Olivia Brooks

April 18, 2025


Hydroxycut, a widely marketed weight-loss supplement by Muscletech (Iovate Health Sciences Research, Oakville, Ontario), has been linked to severe health issues, notably hepatotoxicity. This supplement became incredibly popular, with over 9 million units sold in the U.S. in 2008 alone. However, reports began surfacing about its potential to cause liver injury, leading to its recall by the manufacturer in May 2009.


The supplement's association with liver toxicity was first noted shortly after its release, gaining further attention through multiple case reports. In total, 17 unpublished cases of severe liver injury have been attributed to Hydroxycut. These cases were characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and abdominal pain, often leading to hospitalization, and in some instances, necessitating liver transplantation.


The Drug-Induced Liver Injury Network (DILIN) applied its methodology to assess the causality and severity of the liver damage linked to Hydroxycut, ultimately finding that in eight cases, the association with liver injury was definite. Furthermore, while the initial formula of Hydroxycut included the now-banned Ma Huang (ephedra), detrimental effects persisted even after its removal, suggesting that other ingredients like Garcinia cambogia and green tea extract might also play a role.


Due to the potential severe health risks associated with its consumption, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public warning to discontinue Hydroxycut use. This led to increased awareness and stricter regulatory oversight of dietary supplements.


In summary, Hydroxycut, initially deemed a harmless dietary supplement, has been shown to potentially cause significant liver damage, underscoring the need for caution when considering weight-loss supplements and the importance of regulatory compliance and reporting of adverse events to relevant health authorities.



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Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks is a wellness strategist and writer who covers healthy aging, inflammation, and energy optimization. Her work has appeared in Experience Life, WholeBody, and Living Stronger. She’s based in San Diego and holds a degree in nutritional epidemiology.


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