Phenolphthalein (hidden laxative)

Tier 4 — risky / avoid · Carcinogen · Hidden ingredient · Weight loss

A laxative removed from OTC sale in 1999 after animal studies showed it causes cancer. Still found as an undeclared ingredient in imported weight loss pills and teas — FDA has issued over 100 alerts. Causes severe diarrhoea, electrolyte imbalances, and was classified as a potential human carcinogen. If a weight loss tea or supplement causes dramatic bowel changes, it may contain phenolphthalein.

Dose: AVOID — removed from all markets as a potential carcinogen; found hidden in imported weight loss products