FDA Issues Warning on Ecstasy Substitute

Green Hornet product behind adverse reaction in four teens.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning last week that consumers avoid Green Hornet, a liquid supplement purported to be an herbal substitute for the euphoria-inducing drug ecstasy after four Colorado teenagers sought medical care for adverse reactions. In a Feb. 25 announcement, FDA notes that it is uncertain whether possible combination with other substances caused the reaction to Green Hornet.

Green Hornet, says FDA, is "an unapproved new drug since it contains, among other ingredients, the undeclared active ingredients diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan, found in over-the-counter drugs." The FDA found the non-herbal ingredients, which were not listed on the label, via testing.

The Colorado teens have since recovered from the adverse reactions that included seizures, racing heartbeat, severe body rashes and high blood pressure.