The FDA is recalling the supplement after receiving information that 23 cases of liver damage and liver failure as well as the death of a 19-year-old male have been linked to its use.

That was video from MSNBC, announcing the recall of Hydroxycut, a popular dietary supplement.

Hydroxycut promotes weight loss and fat burning and sells more than 9 million bottles of product each year.

Since their announcement, FDA has come under scrutiny for not recalling the product sooner.

But one doctor tells FOX News buyers should always be cautious…

“Supplements do not have the regulations required for safety once they are released to the market that medications do. Basically, the FDA does not have the authority beforehand to control safety. Once the product is released on the market, then the FDA can receive reports from the manufacturer regarding safety. But it does not have any safety regulations other than the discretion of the manufacturer beforehand …”  (FOX News)

NBC’s TODAY Show brings the perspective from a consumer advocate who says the FDA should do a better job…

“The whole population becomes, in a sense, a guinea pig to find out if something is safe because the company didn’t have to do anything to find out whether it was safe when it came on the market.” (TODAY show)

Dr. Linda Katz of the FDA told CNN that while the risks of using Hydroxycut may be unlikely, it still poses a potential health risk.

“The FDA urges consumers to discontinue use of Hydroxycut products in order to avoid any undue risks. Adverse events are rare, but exist. Consumers should consult a physician or other health care professional if they experience symptoms possibly associated with these products.” (CNN)

NBC shows a statement released by the parent company to Hydroxycut. It says the health risks are small compared to the large number of Hydroxycut users.

“The number of adverse event reports described by the FDA in its advisory is small relative to the many millions of people who have used Hydroxycut products over the past seven years.” (TODAY show)

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