11-06-2023 5:11pm

FDA MedWatch - FDA warns consumers of hidden drug ingredients in Dr. Ergin’s SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support

Anita Johnson-Brown Editor

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a safety communication warning consumers against purchasing and using Dr. Ergin's SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support, which is advertised as a product for blood glucose management. FDA laboratory analysis has revealed that the product contains glyburide and metformin, two active ingredients commonly found in FDA-approved prescription drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, the presence of these ingredients in the product is not listed on the label, making it potentially dangerous to consumers who may inadvertently ingest them.

Glyburide, one of the hidden ingredients, can lead to unsafe drops in blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) which can quickly become severe, resulting in seizures, coma, or death. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include fast heartbeat, shaking, sweating, nervousness or anxiety, irritability or confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and hunger. Metformin, the other hidden ingredient, can cause a rare but serious side effect called lactic acidosis, which can be fatal if left untreated. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, body aches, respiratory distress, abdominal pain, and fast, deep breathing. When taken together with other medications to lower blood sugar, metformin can also cause hypoglycemia.

FDA is not aware of any adverse events related to the use of this product but recommends consumers properly discard these products. The risks associated with both glyburide and metformin are greatest in people with chronic kidney disease, so it is important for patients to tell their healthcare provider about all the medications they are taking, including nonprescription medications.

Health professionals and consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. If you want to learn more about this alert, click on the red button

Complete and submit the report online.
Download the form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return it to the address on the form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.