Consumers who have Magic Power Coffee should stop using it immediately. Sexual enhancement products that claim to work as well as prescription products are likely to expose consumers to unpredictable risks and the potential for injury or even death, according to the agency.
In the case of Magic Power Coffee, FDA collected and analyzed the product and determined that it contains hydroxythiohomosildenafil. This is a chemical similar to sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra. Hydroxythiohomosildenafil, like sildenafil, may interact with prescription drugs known as nitrates, including nitroglycerin, and cause dangerously low blood pressure. Consumers and healthcare professionals should be aware of this problem and the health hazard it presents.
When blood pressure drops suddenly, the brain is deprived of an adequate blood supply, which can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness.
"Because this product is an instant coffee labeled as an ‘all natural dietary supplement,’ consumers may assume it is harmless and poses no health risk," said Deborah Autor, director of FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, Office of Compliance. "In fact, Magic Power Coffee can cause serious harm.”
To date, FDA is not aware of any adverse events associated with the use of this product.
The product is distributed on Internet sites and online auctions by multiple independent distributors participating in an online multi-level marketing scheme. It is sold in a 2-serving box and a 12-serving carton containing six 2-serving boxes.
The FDA advises consumers who have experienced any negative side effects from sexual enhancement products to consult a health care professional and to safely discard the product. Consumers and health care professionals should report adverse events to the FDA's MedWatch program at 800-FDA-1088 or online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm.