Warning

1997-36
May 23, 1997

Warning not to use the Arise & Shine product "CHOMPER"

OTTAWA - Health Canada has received notice from the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) that it is warning consumers not to purchase or consume "CHOMPER," one of a line of dietary supplement products distributed by "Arise & Shine" of Mount Shasta, California. The US FDA found that consuming CHOMPER led to a severe injury and that it may contain substances that cause an abnormal heart rate and rhythm which could cause cardiac arrest.

CHOMPER is promoted as a "herbal laxative" and "cleansing agent" to be used as part of a regimen of dietary products distributed by Arise & Shine. Laboratory analyses of the product revealed that it contains substances similar to those that affect the heart. Use of these powerful substances, which are found in a number of poisonous plants, may result in a severe, potentially fatal heartblock, even in otherwise healthy individuals.

Although the product is not approved for sale in Canada, Health Canada is aware that CHOMPER is used by Canadians. Importations for personal use are seen at Customs' entry points on a regular basis, particularly in Alberta where this cleansing process is more popular. Health Canada urges all individuals who may have this product to stop consuming it and to consult their health care professionals immediately if they experience any adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, confusion, hypotension (low blood pressure), vision disturbances and abnormal heart rate and rhythm.

Information:
Tony Halisky
Health Canada
Pager: (613) 791-3105

Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991