Manufacturer of mystery liquid blames overdoses

LOS ANGELES (CNN) -- The manufacturer of a mysterious liquid that sickened at least 31 people at a New Year's Eve celebration told CNN Thursday the substance, called "FX", is a purified form of an herb called Kava Kava which can be purchased at health food stores.

"My intention was to offer a safe, natural alternative to the crap that is out there," said Dan Xavieris, manufacturer of the product called "FX".

Xavieris said information about "FX", including how much to take and warnings not to mix it with other substances, was included with vials of the orange liquid handed out at the concert. He said the people who became ill took too much of it.

Two people who became sick remained hospitalized Thursday. after complaining of dizziness, nausea and respiratory problems. Hospital officials say drug tests on some of the patients showed marijuana and cocaine use.

Police chemists and officials from the Food and Drug Administration were still conducting tests on FX. A statement from the Los Angeles Police Department said the ingredient Kava Kava could be what caused people to become sick.

The herb is intoxicating, and its effects are consistent with central nervous system depressants, the report said.

Related story:

• Synthetic drug cocktail may have sickened L.A. revelers - January 1, 1997

Related site:

• History, effects and potential dangers of 'ecstasy'

Tell us what you think! You said it...

© 1997 Cable News Network, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.

Terms under which this service is provided to you.