More fake ExtenZe discovered in US supply chain

The US FDA has warned of a fake dietary supplement for male sexual enhancement that could be harmful to men with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease.

In a warning posted on its website, the agency said the product is sold as 'ExtenZe Maximum Strength' and looks similar to a herbal and nutritional product product sold legally by Biotab Nutraceuticals under the ExtenZe brand name.

The FDA noted the counterfeits can be identified by lot number '0512058' and the expiration date 'EXP. May 16' stamped on the outer carton and embossed on the blister card.

Laboratory analysis has confirmed that the copies contain sildenafil, the active ingredient in Pfizer's prescription erectile dysfunction treatment Viagra, which can be hazardous when taken alongside nitrate drugs such as nitroglycerin.

A similar warning was made by the FDA in 2011, when it discovered counterfeit ExtenZe products in the marketplace laced with tadalafil, the active ingredient in Eli Lilly's prescription ED drug Cialis.

Biotab sells ExtenZe under dietary supplement legislation which allows it to make the implicit claim that it can improve sexual performance through "male enhancement."