Those looking to pump up their workouts might be getting more than they bargained for.
The Food and Drug Administration found that RAPTURE pre-workout powder contained an illegal amphetamine derivative that can dangerously raise blood pressure and lead to heart problems, from chest tightening to heart attacks.
One lot of the powder is being recalled by their manufacturer, Leader Formulas, a sports supplement company based in Texas.
The affected RAPTURE pre-workout lot number is 260327-4 and was distributed between Jan. 29, 2025 and May 25, 2026. During testing, the FDA found the product contained an illegal stimulant called 1,3-dimethylamylamine, or DMAA.
The product is packaged in round plastic containers with red and black lettering and a rhinoceros-printed seal on top. There are three flavors affected: Rainbow Twist, with the UPC (product code) 710154236506, Electric Lemonade (710143 236513) and Berry Mojito (710154236544).
People who have purchased these recalled products should stop using them and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund, according to the FDA.
What is DMAA?
DMAA was once sold as a medicine for nasal decongestion, but was taken off the market in the 80s due to its side effects.
“This substance narrows blood vessels and arteries, which can raise blood pressure, and may lead to cardiovascular problems such as shortness of breath, arrhythmias, tightening in the chest, and heart attack, as well as seizures and other neurological and psychological conditions,” the FDA wrote.
However, DMAA came back on the market as a supplement in 2006, marketed for weight loss and as performance enhancers for athletes.
After further research, the substance was banned in Canada in 2011 and over the next two years in New Zealand, Brazil, Finland, Sweden and the US.
“The FDA is very concerned about DMAA, and we advise consumers not to purchase or use any product containing DMAA,” the FDA said.
So far, the company hasn’t received any reports of adverse events related to the recall. However, the FDA is moving quickly as they consider DMAA to be “an unsafe food additive.”
This is especially important as some are drawn to claims that DMAA is a “natural” stimulant derived from plants — but the FDA says there isn’t any “reliable science” showing that’s true.
Pre-workout drinks like RAPTURE are taken 30 minutes to an hour before a workout to give the user more energy and focus while increasing blood flow. Often, these benefits also mess with sleep and cause jitters and anxiety.
Because pre-workout products are supplements, the FDA does not test or approve their safety or accuracy of labeling before they’re sold.
One of the most common additives to pre-workout beverages is caffeine, which helps reduce fatigue and increase alertness. However, when caffeine and DMAA are combined, it can dangerously strain the heart and even cause seizures and death.
Despite the ban on stimulant, it’s still commonly seen in sports performance products. The agency says it finds it during inspections and gives the company a chance to voluntarily recall the affected products.
