SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support: FDA found hidden diabetes drugs

This is a specific FDA warning, not a guess based on a product name. On November 3, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said laboratory analysis confirmed that Dr. Ergin’s SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support contained glyburide and metformin—active ingredients in prescription medicines for type 2 diabetes that were not declared as ingredients. FDA says consumers should not purchase or use any of this product. [1]

What the FDA found

The product was promoted for blood-glucose management as a dietary supplement. FDA found two prescription drug ingredients in it. Glyburide can cause dangerously low blood sugar; metformin can cause lactic acidosis, a rare but potentially fatal condition. Taking the hidden drugs alongside prescribed diabetes medicines could increase the dose without the patient or clinician knowing. FDA says the risks are greatest for people with chronic kidney disease. The agency reported that it was not aware of adverse events at the time of its notice. [1]

Which bottles were recalled

On November 8, 2023, SugarMDs LLC announced a voluntary nationwide recall of lot 22165-003, expiration 09/2024, in 60-, 120- and 180-count bottles. The recall notice says the product was distributed in the United States through Amazon and sugarmds.com. The recall is lot-specific; do not assume every bottle had the same test result. Separately, FDA’s consumer warning says not to purchase or use any Dr. Ergin’s SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support product. Check the official recall notice for package identifiers and instructions. [1][2]

Why this matters for people with diabetes

Do not use the supplement to manage diabetes or replace prescribed treatment. NIDDK advises people to take diabetes medicines as prescribed and to talk with their care team about problems or side effects. If you have used this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist what you took and when, especially if you also use diabetes medicines or have kidney disease. If you feel unwell, seek prompt medical advice; severe symptoms such as fainting, confusion, seizure, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness need emergency care. [1][3]

What to do if you have this product

• Stop using it. Compare the bottle’s name, count, lot and expiration date with FDA’s recall notice; follow the listed return/disposal instructions. Do not give it to anyone else. [1][2][4]
• Tell your health professional about the product and all medicines you take. Do not stop or change prescribed diabetes treatment on your own. [3]
• If you think the product caused a side effect, contact a health professional and report it through FDA MedWatch. The FDA notice links to the reporting form. [1]

Our verdict

We do not recommend Dr. Ergin’s SugarMD Advanced Glucose Support for blood-sugar control or any other use. FDA lab testing found undeclared glyburide and metformin, and the agency advises consumers not to buy or use any of this product. The company’s recall notice identifies lot 22165-003; that detail should not be stretched into a claim that every bottle was tested or contained the same amount. This review concerns the U.S. FDA warning and recall, not product status in other countries. If you have diabetes, keep your care team involved and use prescribed treatment as directed. [1][2][3]