FDA Issues Warning on Toxic Tejocote Root Supplements Contaminated with Yellow Oleander
In September 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published a report of several tejocote root products found to be substituted with toxic yellow oleander. Based on this report, the FDA initiated an investigation to sample and test additional tejocote root products.
Key Points:
• The FDA has issued a warning about certain tejocote root supplements found to be substituted with toxic yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia).
• An investigation was initiated based on a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighting tejocote root products containing yellow oleander.
• Adulterated products labeled as tejocote were found to contain yellow oleander, posing severe neurologic, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular health risks.
• Symptoms of yellow oleander ingestion may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cardiac changes, dysrhythmia, and more.
• These contaminated products are often sold online through third-party platforms.
• The FDA has tested 9 samples, all of which contained yellow oleander, and is concerned that other products marketed as tejocote may also be contaminated.
• Ongoing collaboration with third-party platforms is underway, and the FDA’s investigation continues.
Background:
Yellow oleander (Cascabela thevetia) is a poisonous plant native to Mexico and Central America, posing a significant health risk.
Recommendations:
• Consumers are strongly advised to stop using and dispose of products labeled as tejocote.
• If consumers have taken these products, even if not recently, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately, providing information about the product for appropriate evaluation.
• In case of serious side effects, call 9-1-1 or seek emergency medical assistance.
• Health professionals and consumers are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to these products to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
Contact Information:
• Consumers can report adverse events online via the FDA’s MedWatch program.
• Reporting forms can be downloaded or obtained by calling 1-800-332-1088 and submitted via mail or fax.
• For direct assistance, consumers can contact an FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator.
The FDA emphasizes ongoing monitoring of the market for emerging issues related to these products, with updates and additional advisories possible as the investigation progresses.
