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HSA Warns Against Taking “Jianbu Huqian Wan” [健步虎潛丸] – An Adulterated Product Found to Contain Undeclared Potent Western Medicinal Ingredients
13 December 2010
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The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has detected an adulterated health product labelled “JianBu HuQian Wan” [健步虎潛丸], which was tested by HSA's Pharmaceutical Laboratory to contain two undeclared potent western medicinal ingredients, namely dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine, which are controlled under the Poisons Act.
2 This product was reported to HSA's Vigilance Branch by a member of the public who became suspicious of the product, when her mother experienced rapid relief from body aches soon after consuming the product over a short period of time. Her mother had also suffered adverse effects as a result of taking the illegal product.
About the Product
3 “JianBu HuQian Wan [健步虎潛丸]” is an illegal adulterated product which has not been approved by HSA. The product was bought from overseas and is indicated to treat joint pain, muscle aches and weak limbs.
4 The illegal product is presented in a yellow and green outer box, which contained a white bottle with red and white capsules. The product's label carries an invalid Malaysian Product Registration Number “MAL05121196T”. The label also contains inaccurate information regarding its manufacturer and distributor. Please see Annex A for photo and information printed on the label.
About the Adverse Reaction
5 HSA's investigation revealed that the 70 year-old elderly female patient had poor diabetic control with increased glucose levels as a result of taking the product. The patient was also reported to have developed varicose vein with blood clots, rapid weight gain and increased appetite after starting the product. These symptoms are similar to the adverse effects caused by the prolonged use of the corticosteroid, dexamethasone. The patient has since stopped consuming the product and is recovering from the adverse effects.
6 Unsupervised and long-term use of dexamethasone, which is an anti-inflammatory medicine, can cause harmful effects such as increased blood glucose level, high blood pressure, muscle damage, mental disorders and weak bones leading to osteoporosis. The adverse effects of chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine commonly found in cold medications, include drowsiness, confusion, and urinary retention.
7 Dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine are potent medicinal products that should be prescribed by healthcare professionals. Patients taking these products need to be under medical supervision. Dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine are substances controlled under the Poisons Act. It is an offence for an unlicensed person to import, sell or possess for sale any product containing these substances. Anyone found guilty of an offence under the Poisons Act is liable to a fine of up to $10,000 and/or imprisonment for a term of up to two years
HSA Advisory
8 HSA strongly advises consumers who have purchased this product not to consume it. If consumers have taken this product, they should seek medical attention if they feel unwell or are concerned about their health.
9 Consumers are advised to be wary of traditional and complementary medicines that show quick and miraculous therapeutic effects, especially if these products are bought from unreliable sources and claim to treat serious conditions.
10 If you are aware of the product being sold illegally, please provide information to assist our investigation by contacting HSA's Enforcement Branch at Tel: 6866 3485 or Email: hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg.
HEALTH SCIENCES AUTHORITY
SINGAPORE
13 DECEMBER 2010