Q. I sometimes take energy supplements, mainly Hydroxycut, prior to exercising to enhance my workout. The supplements do not contain ephedrine, and I only take them three times per week. Is this safe, or are these kinds of products things that I should avoid?

Ephedrine is the same product that was for a few years pulled off the market, except in cold remedies, by the FDA do to several patient deaths. The deaths were due to aggravated blood pressure, rapid heart beat response, and cardiac issues.
The ephedrine was recently allowed back on the market by the FDA in lower doses, but should definitely be used with caution. In your Hydroxycut, the ephedrine is being used as a minimal appetite suppressant by essentially speeding up your heart rate. It is also paired with caffeine, which acts in a similar manner. Clinical studies in athletes have shown poor results for ephedrine, when used for exercising/weight loss. I would put little faith in the claims of the product, and save your money for something else.