A supplement meant to give gymgoers a boost before their workout has been recalled for containing an illegal, amphetamine-like substance, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Leader Formulas, LLC initiated a recall of its Rapture pre-workout powders Oct. 6 after FDA testing found they contained a synthetic substance called DMAA. Once allowed in some pharmaceutical products, DMAA is banned in the United States and several other countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and the European Union.
Because it works like a stimulant, DMAA is still sometimes slipped into products that advertise themselves for energy boosting, like fitness supplements. The FDA removes these products from shelves when they're discovered, as it "could
lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart attack," according to the recall notice.
No adverse reactions have been reported to Leader Formulas as of Oct. 7, but health authorities are urging consumers to avoid consuming the products. Here's what to know.
Which energy drinks were recalled?
Affected products were sold nationwide via retail stores and the company's website between 1/29/25 and 5/25/26. They all bear the lot number 260327-4.
- RAPTURE Preworkout Rainbow Twist; UPC 710154236506
- RAPTURE Preworkout Electric Lemonade; UPC 710143 236513
- RAPTURE Preworkout Berry Mojito; UPC 710154236544
What is DMAA?
DMAA, or dimethylamylamine, is a synthetic stimulant related to amphetamine that was once used as a nasal decongestant, but was withdrawn from the market in the 1980s.
1,3-DMAA, the specific type found in the drinks, is sometimes also called methylhexamine. It is banned from use in dietary supplements in the U.S., but still finds its way into products advertised as energy-boosting and performance-enhancing.
Though it is known to act like a stimulant in the body, DMAA's actual effects aren't well understood, and the FDA recognizes no valid medical use of the substance. Known side effects can include racing heartbeat, high blood pressure, headache, shortness of breath and feelings of tightness in the chest.
Using it can result in "cardiovascular problems, including heart attack," according to the FDA. Consumers should not buy or consume any product that contains DMAA and should report it to the FDA, says the agency. It may also be listed on labels under a series of other names, including geranamine, 4-Methyl-2-hexanamine and 2-Amino-4-methylhexane, as well as various iterations of dimethylamylamine and methylhexanamine
What to do with recalled pre-workout
Consumers who have recalled products at home should not consume them and should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Leader Formulas, LLC is notifying its distributors and customers by mail and is arranging for the return of all recalled products. Questions can be directed to the company by email at Patrick@leaderformulas.com or by phone at 832-855-7562.
USA TODAY reached out to Leader Formulas for comment.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Workout drink recalled for illegal amphetamine-like substance
