A DH spokesman said the department was investigating a complaint that a 50-year-old woman suffered from stomach discomfort after taking the products.
Her symptoms subsided after she had stopped taking the products.
The products were found to have contained western drug ingredients - dexamethasone, phenylbutazone and piroxicam.
Dexamethasone is a steroid and is used for suppression of inflammatory and allergic disorders. Taking it for a long time can cause side effects including central obesity, high blood pressure and high blood sugar.
Phenylbutazone and piroxicam are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. They are commonly used for treatment of joint pain. The known side effects include gastro-intestinal discomfort, nausea, stomach pain and bleeding, and even liver and kidney toxicity.
In Hong Kong, products containing western drug ingredients are western medicines and must be registered under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance before sale. The possession or sale of unregistered pharmaceutical product is an offence liable to the maximum penalties of a $100,000 fine and two years' imprisonment.
All the above three western drug ingredients should only be used under medical supervision. They are classified as Third Schedule poisons under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance and can only be sold on a doctor's prescription and under supervision of a pharmacist.
The spokesman said the department has no record of the products concerned having been imported into Hong Kong for sale.
Members of the public who have been using the product are advised to stop taking them immediately and seek advice from their doctors if necessary.
They should dispose of the product or submit it to the department's Pharmaceutical Service at 3/F, Public Health Laboratory Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon during office hours.
The spokesman reminded people who had gouty arthritis problem to consult medical professionals for appropriate advice or medication if necessary.
Reprinted from HKSAR Government web page:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200801/15/P200801150211.htm