Slimming health product recalled (March 18, 2005)
The Department
of Health today (March 18) advised members of the public not to buy
or use the slimming health product, "Bioslim Herbal
Tablets".
The product, which is not registered
under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, was found to contain
bisacodyl, a Western drug ingredient for treating constipation.
Bisacodyl is used as a stimulant
laxative. It can cause discomfort such as abdominal pain and
cramps. Prolonged use or overdosing on it can lead to excessive
loss of water and electrolytes.
The importer and the wholesaler have
been instructed to recall the product from the market and to
surrender it to the Department of Health.
"Products containing bisacodyl are
pharmaceutical products and must be registered before sale," a
department spokesman said.
Members of the public who have
purchased the products should immediately stop using them and seek
medical advice if they feel unwell.
They are advised to dispose of them
or return them to the importer or submit them to the Pharmaceutical
Service of the Department of Health, 3/F Public Health Laboratory
Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon during office hours.
Members of the public may call the
importer's hotline 2518 0365 for matters relating to the
recall.
The department has also set up an
enquiries hotline 2319 2839, which will operate until 8pm today and
during office hours from tomorrow onwards.
The spokesman reminded importers and
retailers that the possession and sale of unregistered
pharmaceutical products is an offence liable to a maximum penalty
of $100,000 fine and two years' imprisonment.
"Members of the public should control
their weight by observing good dietary practice and appropriate
physical activities. Before using drugs for weight reduction, they
should first consult their family doctors," he said.
Reprinted from HKSAR Government
web page:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200503/18/03180264.htm
