The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of AK Forte tablets, sold as dietary supplements for joint pain and arthritis, due to the presence of three drugs: dexamethasone, diclofenac, and methocarbamol. These drugs were not meant to be included in the product and could pose serious health risks to consumers. C&A Naturistics, the company responsible for producing AK Forte, has voluntarily recalled all lots of the product and is advising consumers to return the tablets or discard them immediately.
Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, can suppress the adrenal gland and increase the risk of infections, muscle injuries, high blood sugar levels, and psychiatric problems. Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), may elevate the risk of heart attack, stroke, and serious damage to the digestive system. Methocarbamol, a muscle relaxant, can cause low blood pressure, dizziness, and sedation, impacting a person’s ability to perform certain tasks safely. The FDA has cautioned that these drugs could interact with other medications, potentially leading to severe side effects, particularly if an individual is also taking other NSAIDs.
The AK Forte tablets were packaged in boxes of 100 tablets with distinctive white, blue, red, and gold cardboard packaging featuring a logo depicting a gold crown above the letters “AK.” While no negative health events have been reported in relation to these tablets so far, consumers are urged to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms that could be linked to the product. C&A Naturistics is actively reaching out to distributors and consumers to facilitate returns, and individuals are encouraged to contact the company to arrange for the safe disposal of the tablets.
Consumers who have been taking AK Forte are advised to consult with their healthcare provider promptly to evaluate potential risks of withdrawal and safely discontinue the use of the tablets. Newsweek has reached out to C&A Naturistics for a comment on the situation. Additionally, if you have any information on a food-related story that Newsweek should cover or are concerned about a particular nutritional issue, you can contact the publication via email. Experts can provide guidance, and your story might be featured in Newsweek to raise awareness and help others stay informed about potential health risks associated with dietary supplements.
