Public Health Advisory: Hepatitis linked to fat-burning supplement Published Oct. 18, 2013 48th Medical Group ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- More than 20 cases of unexplained hepatitis have been linked to the OxyElite Pro supplement that claims fat-burning benefits. All of the cases have occurred in Hawaii. Public Health officials are still conducting an investigation and have concluded of the 29 cases of acute non-viral hepatitis with an unknown cause, 24 of the cases share a link with the OxyElite supplement. One fatality was reported, eleven people have been hospitalized with hepatitis and two people required a liver transplant. Not all forms of the liver-damaging disease hepatitis are caused by viruses; such as hepatitis A, B and C. Hepatitis simply refers to an inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by toxins from the misuse of drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter and/or alcohol. Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay or gray-colored bowel movements, joint pain, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. The Food and Drug Administration has announced the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are conducting an investigation of additional hepatitis cases nationwide. Health officials have advised the public to stop taking the supplement immediately, which is made by USPlabs LLC of Dallas and sold online or at supplement retail stores. A representative for USPlabs LLC states that the company has stopped nationwide distribution of the supplement. GNC has also voluntarily removed the supplement from their stores. For any local questions or concerns regarding this advisory, contact Public Health at DSN 226-8010 or commercial 01638 528777. The 48th Medical Group Access to Care Line is DSN 226-8010 or commercial 01638 528010.