EmpireLabz Australia Pty Ltd fined $115,500 for alleged unlawful advertising and supply of sport supplements

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued 7 infringement notices totalling $115,500 to EmpireLabz Australia Pty Ltd for the alleged unlawful advertising and supply of sport supplement products not included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).

The TGA conducted laboratory testing of the products alleged to have been advertised and supplied by EmpireLabz Australia Pty Ltd. The testing identified the banned substances 1,4-Dimethylpentylamine (DMAA) and 1,5–Dimethylhexylamine (DMHA). The sale, supply and use of products containing DMAA and DMHA is prohibited in Australia due to the dangers they pose to human health. Potential adverse effects of these substances include cardiac, nervous and psychiatric disorders.

All tested products were also found to contain prescription-only ingredients, including Deanol, Yohimbine and Levadopa. It is unlawful to advertise prescription-only medicines in Australia and to supply therapeutic goods not included in the ARTG.

Sport supplement products are therapeutic goods when they make therapeutic claims and contain scheduled substances or substances that are prohibited for use in sport by the World Anti-Doping Authority. Sports supplements that contain undeclared or potentially harmful ingredients can cause serious health problems. 

The TGA considers the unlawful import, manufacture, advertising and supply of unapproved medicines used in the wellness industry, including sport supplement products, a compliance priority and will continue to take strong enforcement action in this area.

If you suspect non-compliance in relation to therapeutic goods, you can report illegal or questionable practices and report suspected non-compliant advertising to the TGA online.

Contact for members of the media:

• Email: news@health.gov.au
• Phone: 02 6289 7400