DMAA, otherwise known as Dimethylamylamine, is a popular ingredient that is currently being used in numerous bodybuilding and weight loss supplements around the world. Of significant concern, however, are several clinical trials cautioning consumers of the ambiguous origins of DMAA. While previous studies will have you believe that DMAA is a natural constituent of geranium oil, recent data provides us with insight to the possibility of it being the byproduct of synthetic manufacturing. Overwhelming evidence, condemning DMAA as a naturally occurring substance, has forced regulatory agencies around the world to take steps in banning it from their respective countries.
DMAA has been marketed as a dietary supplement ingredient in combination with caffeine and other ingredients to be used as an over-the-counter thermogenic or general purpose stimulant intended to increase workout energy and efficiency. The increasingly popular ingredient can be found in a growing number of DMAA products that are currently on store shelves. However, misconceptions regarding the origins and safety of DMAA have caused a great deal of controversy in the pharmaceutical industry.
Controversy surrounding DMAA became apparent in 2010 after several sources expressed their fears that synthetic versions of geranium oil were being illegally formulated into bodybuilding and weight loss supplements. According to a source at the time, who shall remain nameless, several supplements contained synthetic variations of geranium oil. “This whole Geranamine thing has been on our radar before – about 4-5 years ago, but it never went anywhere. This time around someone got some traction with a product and now everyone is following,” he said.
Shrouding the origins of DMAA in ambiguity is the Chinese study from which many dietary supplement manufacturers received their information. According to the “Ping Study,” DMAA is a natural derivative of the geranium plant. Accordingly, the findings of this study were published in a non reputable, peer-reviewed journal of chemistry. It was from this journal that the majority of dietary supplement manufacturers obtained their information on DMAA.
In recent years, the controversy surrounding the origins of DMAA has gained considerable traction. Clinical trials and independent researchers are currently attempting to reveal the true origins of DMAA. In doing so, researchers also hope to determine the legality of the ambiguous ingredient that is currently masquerading as a dietary supplement.
Complicating the already volatile situation are a slew of adverse health reports regarding the ingestion of dietary supplements that contain DMAA. NutraIngredients.com identified a 21-year old New Zealand man who suffered a cerebral hemorrhage shortly after ingesting “party pills” that contained DMAA. In the United States, two soldiers suffered fatal heart attacks after taking DMAA as part of their pre-workout regimen. Mr. Graves, an Army representative, said that DMAA had been identified in the toxicology reports of two soldiers who suffered fatal heart attacks during physical exercise. In addition to the two fatalities, Graves acknowledged a possible link between products with DMAA and an influx of kidney failure, seizures, loss of consciousness and rapid heartbeat in other military personnel.
In response to the influx of adverse events such as these, regulatory agencies around the world have begun to take the appropriate steps towards banning DMAA from their respective countries. The list of regulatory agencies seems to be growing exponentially, with Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, Canada, Finland, Denmark, Sweden France, Italy, Spain, Malta and the Netherlands already taking action.
Do I Have a DMAA Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in DMAA lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has been injured by DMAA, you may be entitled to financial compensation. For a free case review, please click the link below or call toll free 24 hrs/day 1-(949) 557-5800.