Is Xenadrine Discontinued? Safety History Explained
Is Xenadrine discontinued?
The Quick Answer
Yes—**Xenadrine RFA** (containing ephedra/ma huang) was discontinued after FDA banned ephedra alkaloids in 2004 due to cardiovascular risks including heart attack and stroke. Cytodyne Technologies still markets **ephedra-free Xenadrine products**, but the original stimulant-heavy RFA line was permanently removed from the market following documented cases of coronary thrombosis and sudden cardiac death.
Why We Ask This
Consumers seeking the original Xenadrine formula may unknowingly purchase reformulated ephedra-free versions expecting similar potency, or worse, seek dangerous underground ephedra sources—creating serious cardiovascular risks especially for those with undiagnosed heart conditions.
The Practical Science
The FDA banned dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids in 2004 after reviewing over 16,000 adverse event reports linking ephedra to hypertension, arrhythmias, stroke, and myocardial infarction—particularly when combined with caffeine in thermogenic blends like original Xenadrine RFA.
In Clinical Practice
A patient with undiagnosed long QT syndrome consuming original Xenadrine RFA experienced ventricular fibrillation requiring defibrillation—prompting permanent discontinuation of the ephedra-containing line while the brand pivoted to safer, though less potent, stimulant alternatives.
References & Context
Coronary Thrombosis Related to Use of Xenadrine® RFA - PubMed Central"Cytodyne Technologies, Inc., which has discontinued its RFA line of Xenadrine, currently markets other products bearing the name Xenadrine that do not contain ma huang."