Hidden erectile dysfunction drug found in counterfeit supplement, FDA warns

A company behind a popular dietary supplement for men is alerting the public that a counterfeit of its product may contain a hidden erectile dysfunction drug.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, the counterfeit products have been misrepresented as a genuine Green Lumber product and could contain the prescription drug tadalafil, which could pose health risks.

“Because tadalafil is a prescription-only medication, individuals who take nitrates or certain prescription drugs for heart disease, blood pressure, or other conditions may be at risk of life-threatening side effects such as dangerously low blood pressure or other serious adverse events,” the administration wrote in a statement.

Tadalafil is used to treat men who have erectile dysfunction, according to Mayo Clinic. The medication helps to maintain an erection during sexual activity by increasing blood flow to the penis.

The medication is not an ingredient in any authentic Green Lumber product, the FDA said. It was discovered during an internal investigation that a company employee took legitimate packaging and customer information to distribute the counterfeit, adulterated product. The employee has been terminated.

Authentic Green Lumber packages display the lot number LOTGLU13101b1EXP0926.

Those who believe they have fake Green Lumber supplements should “immediately discontinue use” and report the product to Green Lumber by email at consumer-safety@greenlumber.com or phone at 979-426-8622.

Additionally, customers who experience unexpected side effects after using the mislabeled product should seek medical care.