FDA WARNS AGAINST USE OF BISMACINE FOR LYME DISEASE

Bismacine, used as an alternative treatment for Lyme disease, is responsible for at least one death and should not be used, the FDA said.

In a July 21 announcement, the agency warned healthcare professionals and consumers about the dangers of the bismacine, which is an injectable product containing high amounts of the heavy metal bismuth. One person died on April 20 from bismacine, also known as chromacine, and another was hospitalized last year, the FDA said. Other people have suffered adverse events.

Health effects from bismacine include cardiovascular collapse and kidney failure.

The FDA said bismacine in not approved for any use and is given by doctors of "alternative health" or by people claiming to be doctors. The announcement said the agency is "evaluating the product suppliers and will take additional action as appropriate."