Q: What is OxyElite Pro?
A. OxyElite Pro is a dietary supplement sold over the counter advertised to help with weight loss.
Q: What dietary supplement is causing these health complications?
A: According to the Hawaii Department of Health, while no exact source of this event has been determined, there have been links made amongst some individuals who have contracted hepatitis and the use of OxyElite Pro.
Q: What is hepatitis?
A: Hepatitis is a disease in which the liver becomes swollen. The swelling can become so severe that it causes the liver to stop functioning. Liver failure can be life-threatening.
Q: What does the liver do?
A: The liver helps your body digest food, store energy, and remove poisons/toxins. Without your liver, you cannot survive very long.
Q: What are the symptoms of hepatitis?
A: Hepatitis may cause stomach/abdominal pain or discomfort, feeling tired, loss of appetite, nausea and/or vomiting, yellow skin and/or yellow eyes. Some people may have dark- colored urine and pale stool.
Q: What should I do if I have hepatitis symptoms and have been taken dietary supplements?
A: Stop taking the dietary supplement immediately and contact your healthcare providers. Do not throw away any of the packaging or remaining supplements as these may be used in testing in the future.
Q: What should I do if I have been taken dietary supplements but do not have any symptoms of hepatitis?
A: It is recommended by the Hawaii Department of Health that you use caution if you choose to continue the use of the dietary supplements and contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you have any changes in your health condition, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Q: What should I do with any unused product?
A: You should maintain any unused product. In the event that you develop health issues it may be necessary for the unused product to be tested. It also may be evidence in the event you file a lawsuit.
Q: Where was OxyElite Pro sold?
A: OxyElite Pro was sold at GNC and The Vitamin Shoppe in addition to other online providers of dietary supplements.
Q: What are my legal rights?
A: If you have taken a dietary supplement, including OxyElite Pro, and have contracted hepatitis or had liver problems, you may have a claim against the manufacturer, distributor and/or retailer for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and/or disfigurement. Each state’s laws are different regarding damages and some or all of these damages may be allowable in your state. Please consider contacting John David Hart by phone at 1-800-247-1623 or by email at johnhart@hartlaw.com to discuss your legal rights.