While following up on a case referred by the Hospital Authority, the DH found from the laboratory tests on the samples of the concerned product showed the presence of sibutramine and thyroid hormones which were used for slimming.
Sibutramine may cause increased blood pressure and heart rate, and persons with heart problems should not take it. Side effects of thyroid hormones include tremor, palpitation, excessive sweating, insomnia, headache and arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm).
A spokesman for DH said: "Products containing these ingredients must be registered before they can be sold in Hong Kong. Products containing these drug ingredients are prescription only medicine and can only be sold on a doctor's prescription and dispensed under the supervision of a pharmacist."
This slimming product is not a registered pharmaceutical product in Hong Kong. DH has no record of this product having been imported into Hong Kong for sale.
Possession or sale of unregistered pharmaceutical product is liable on conviction to a $100,000 fine and two years' imprisonment.
Members of the public who have used the product are advised to stop taking it immediately and seek advice from healthcare professionals if they feel unwell.
The spokesman said, "Weight control should be achieved by observing good diet and appropriate exercise. They should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control."
Anyone who has the slimming product in their possession should dispose of the product themselves or submit it to the department's Pharmaceutical Service at 3/F, Public Health Laboratory Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon during office hours.
Reprinted from HKSAR Government web page:
http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/200803/28/P200803280258.htm