He said that the test results available this evening showed a high quantity of glibenclamide, a western drug ingredient used for the treatment of diabetes.
The level found in the sample is much higher than the usual dose and thus could cause a significant fall in blood sugar level and even death.
Further investigation by DH is proceeding.
The DH spokesman further urged all retailers not to buy health products or medicines from unknown sources, as the quality of the products cannot be assured.
Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, products containing glibenclamide must be registered before sale and can only be sold on a doctor's prescription and under supervision of a pharmacist.
Members of the public who have bought similar product from retail shops, including the above mentioned retail shop located at No. 111, San Fung Avenue, Sheung Shui, are urged to stop taking them immediately. They should seek advice from their doctors if they feel unwell after consuming the product.
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. If they have any enquiry, please call hotline no. 2572 2068 during office hours.
The spokesman urged people who had a problem of sexual dysfunction to consult medical professionals for appropriate advice or medication if necessary.
DH followed up into Hospital Authority's reports concerning people falling sick after taking health products and visited some retail shops in North District on Friday evening.
A sample of the red/yellow capsules similar to the one taken by a patient was taken from the above-mentioned retail shop. Laboratory tests yesterday revealed the presence of glibenclamide and sildenafil which may cause serious adverse health consequences if taken without medical supervision.
Reprinted from HKSAR Government web page:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200802/03/P200802030215.htm