FDA not happy about Cocaine Energy Drink

The Cocaine Energy Drink produced by a Las Vegas company is under attack by the FDA. According to an article, the Food and Drug Administration said Redux Beverages LLC is illegally marketing the drink as both a street drug alternative and a dietary supplement.

The FDA cites as evidence the drink's own labeling and Web site, which include the statements "Speed in a Can," "Liquid Cocaine" and "Cocaine — Instant Rush." In addition, dietary supplements cannot carry claims to prevent or treat a disease — something only drugs can do. The Cocaine Web site lists an ingredient called inositol and says it reduces cholesterol and helps prevent hardening of the arteries, among other health claims, the FDA said.

The FDA is saying that Cocaine is a new drug and as such cannot be sold without FDA approval. The FDA gave the company 15 days to notify the agency of its plans to correct the violations of federal law. Otherwise, it can face seizure of its products, injunctions and possible criminal prosecution.

When I introduced Cocaine Energy Drink in my blog I mentioned that I disagreed with the product, its Web site and its marketing tactics. I believe that FDA is doing the right thing by forcing Redux Beverages LLC to make a change in the marketing and claims about their product.