Dilated cardiomyopathy after ingestion of Triac

Dangers of OTC Herbal Supplements:
Dilated Cardiomyopathy after Ingestion of TRIAC (triiodothyroacetic acid, Tiratricol)

Donald H. Marks, M.D., Ph.D.

Cardiomyopathy associated with hyperthyroidism is a serious and potentially lethal condition. We describe a patient who developed a dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) after consuming an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement containing triiodothyroacetic acid. With early diagnosis and treatment by removal of the source, cardiomyopathy may be reversible, as in this patient's case. The dangers of use of OTC medications, and problems and assumptions associated with FDA monitoring and removal from the market of harmful substances are discussed.

Introduction
Tricana, containing triiodothyroacetic acid, was sold as an OTC herbal supplement preparation, and promoted for potential beneficial metabolic effects, including weight loss and energy enhancement. Tricana was withdrawn from the market in 2000 by the FDA 1
when Tricana use was associated with various adverse effects, including heart attacks and strokes. Symptoms associated with ingestion of Triac included many of those typical of hyperthyroidism: insomnia, nervousness, sweating, and diarrhea This report describes the case of a reversible dilated cardiomyopathy in a woman who used Tricana.

Citation:
Donald H. Marks: Dangers of OTC Herbal Supplements: Dilated Cardiomyopathy after Ingestion of TRIAC (triiodothyroacetic acid, Tiratricol). The Internet Journal of Endocrinology. 2007. Volume 3 Number 2.