The appeal followed investigations by the department into a private doctor's report concerning the product. One of his patients developed prolonged erection after taking the product bought on the Mainland. The patient's condition was likely to be due to the product's ingredients.
A department spokesman said that a sample of the product taken for laboratory tests was found to have contained Western drug ingredients - sildenafil and tadalafil - for treating impotence.
"The two drug ingredients should only be used under medical supervision. They may cause side effects, including low blood pressure, headache, flushing, vomiting, dizziness, increased inner eye pressure and transient vision disturbances.
"The product poses a potential threat to consumers' health as it may interact with other drugs, such as nitrates, and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. There is currently no scientific evidence to support using sildenafil and tadalafil together."
He said the product was not registered in Hong Kong.
"Products containing these two drug ingredients are Third Schedule poisons under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance. They must be registered before sale and can only be sold on a doctor's prescription and under the supervision of a pharmacist."
Members of the public who have been using the product are advised to stop immediately and to seek medical attention if they feel unwell.
They should dispose of the product or submit it to the department's pharmaceutical service, 3/F Public Health Laboratory Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon during office hours.
The department will inform the relevant authorities on the Mainland and in Macau about the case.
The spokesman said people who had a problem with sexual dysfunction should consult medical professionals for appropriate advice or medication if necessary.
Reprinted from HKSAR Government web page:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200701/25/P200701250188.htm