HSA Alert: “Pi De Kang Dermatitis Cream” Recalled Due To Detection Of Potent Steroid And Antifungal Medicine
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is alerting members of the public not to use “皮得康 (Pi De Kang) Dermatitis Cream” which was tested by HSA to contain two potent medicinal ingredients, a steroid (clobetasol) and an antifungal (miconazole).
2 “皮得康 (Pi De Kang) Dermatitis Cream” was imported by Da Zhong Tang Pte Ltd and supplied by Chinese Medical Centre Pte Ltd as a “Skin itching cream”. Following feedback from a consumer, HSA tested the product and found that it contained clobetasol and miconazole.
3 HSA has directed Da Zhong Tang Pte Ltd and Chinese Medical Centre Pte Ltd to stop the sales and conduct a consumer recall of all batches of “皮得康 (Pi De Kang) Dermatitis Cream” that they have given to their customers. The recall is underway. Please refer to Annex A of the pdf version for photos of the product.
4 In the meantime, HSA is investigating Da Zhong Tang Pte Ltd and Chinese Medical Centre Pte Ltd for the importation and supply of this adulterated product.
Harmful effects from unsupervised use of steroids and antifungal medicines
5 Clobetasol propionate is a potent steroid that is usually prescribed for inflammatory skin conditions such as chronic eczema and psoriasis (condition characterised by patches of thick, scaly skin) and should only be used under strict medical supervision. Long-term unsupervised use of steroid-containing creams can cause thinning of the skin and topical steroid withdrawal syndrome, which presents as burning, redness, itching, pain or skin peeling, following sudden discontinuation after prolonged use. Topical steroids may also be absorbed into the body and cause serious adverse effects when applied to large areas of the skin or used over a prolonged period. These adverse effects include high blood pressure, cataracts, muscular and bone disorders, an increased risk of infections and Cushing’s syndrome (a round face or ‘moon face’ appearance and upper body obesity with thin limbs). If used in children and infants who are more susceptible to the effects of steroids, they may be at a higher risk of steroid-associated adverse effects.
6 Miconazole is used to treat fungal infections. Possible adverse effects associated with the inappropriate use of creams containing miconazole may include skin irritation, itching, skin rash and burning sensation of the skin.
Advisory to consumers
7 Consumers are advised to see a doctor as soon as possible if they are using “皮得康 (Pi De Kang) Dermatitis Cream”. Sudden stopping of the steroid-containing creams without medical supervision may worsen underlying skin conditions or cause topical steroid withdrawal symptoms which present as burning, redness, itching, pain or skin peeling.
8 For enquiries or returns regarding “皮得康 (Pi De Kang) Dermatitis Cream”, consumers may contact Da Zhong Tang Pte. Ltd. via email at enquiry@cmc.sg or Tel: 8181 8765 from 10am to 12pm and 1:30pm to 5pm on Mondays to Fridays (excluding public holidays).
Advisory to sellers and suppliers
9 All sellers and suppliers must stop selling “皮得康 (Pi De Kang) Dermatitis Cream” immediately. HSA will not hesitate to take stern enforcement actions against anyone who sells and supplies products found to be adulterated with potent ingredients. Sellers and suppliers are liable to prosecution and if convicted, may be imprisoned for up to 2 years and/or fined up to $10,000.
10 Members of the public who have any information on the sale and supply of this product may contact HSA’s Enforcement Branch at Tel: 6866 3485 during office hours (Monday to Friday) or email: hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg
HEALTH SCIENCES AUTHORITY
SINGAPORE
23 JULY 2025
Download pdf version here
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