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