Recent months have witnessed dimethylamylamine (DMAA), a dietary supplement ingredient with ambiguous origins, become the target of increasing criticism. Having recently been linked to the deaths of two soldiers in the United States Army, products containing DMAA have been placed on a temporary moratorium by military pharmaceutical stores. Subsequently, studies suggest that the introduction of DMAA may coincide with catastrophic cardiac events. While researchers are still trying to determine the safety and efficacy of DMAA, warning signs for such complications were acknowledged approximately two years ago in The New Zealand Medical Journal after a 21-year-old male suffered from a cerebral hemorrhage.
DMAA has been marketed as a dietary supplement ingredient in combination with caffeine and other ingredients to be used as an over-the-counter thermogenic or general purpose stimulant intended to increase workout energy and efficiency. Also known as party pills, DMAA-containing dietary supplements have been used in conjunction with increasing workout intensity as well as providing a lasting boost of energy.
Unfortunately, the pharmacodynamics of DMAA may coincide with catastrophic cardiac anomalies that vary in severity. A Case Report published in The New Zealand Medical Journal acknowledged a near fatal cerebral hemorrhage in a 21-year-old male after taking DMAA. According to the report, the young man was out with his friends when he ingested two tablets containing DMAA. After just 30 minutes, the man developed a severe headache and requested that he be taken home. Before falling asleep, he became confused, incontinent of urine and vomited for approximately two to three hours.
Upon waking up the next morning, the young man acknowledged that he was drowsy with significantly slurred speech. After failing to improve at all, he was taken to the local hospital emergency room. After receiving several tests, doctors determined that his heart rate was higher than average at 65 bpm. Subsequently his blood pressure was a dangerous 126/66 mmHg.
Following the initial diagnosis, a CT scan was used to determine the state of the brain. Upon completion of the scan, imaging showed a large hemorrhage (66 mm × 21 mm × 31 mm) in the region of the left basal ganglia with mass effect causing 5 mm of midline shift. The patient was transfered to a brain injury rehabilitation center after he began to show signs of recovery. He was finally discharged after 15 days of treatment at the subsequent center.
A detailed multidisciplinary assessment identified severe impairment to memory and abstract reasoning. Mild impairments of speech and right hand coordination were also noted. Identical pills obtained from the retailer were analyzed and confirmed the contents as powdered 1,3 dimethylamylamine 278 mg per capsule.
While ambiguity still surrounds the origin, safety and efficacy of DMAA products, literature such as this adds weight to the link between party pills and catastrophic complications.
Do I Have a DMAA Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in DMAA lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one has been injured by DMAA, you may be entitled to financial compensation. For a free case review, please click the link below or call toll free 24 hrs/day 1-(949) 557-5800.