All herbal safety warnings and alerts
6 May 2014
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is advising consumers not to use the following traditional Chinese medicines as there are concerns about possible side effects. These products are not authorised for sale in the UK and have not been found on the UK marketplace, but they could be available on the internet.
Hairegeberator is promoted for the treatment of hair loss. According to the product packaging, the product is manufactured by Hang Cheong Lung Pharmaceutical Limited.
Hairegeberator The Hong Kong Department of Health found that samples of Hairegenerator exceeded the permissible limit for mercury. Ingestion of excessive amounts of heavy metals such as mercury poses serious health risks because the metals may accumulate in vital organs of the body. Children are most susceptible to the toxic effects.
The toxic effects of mercury include irritability, tremors, memory loss, insomnia, concentration problems, and kidney and brain damage.
Li Long Mei Guo Mo Bang is promoted for sexual enhancement.
Li Long Mei Guo Mo Bang The Singapore Health Sciences Authority warned consumers not to use Li Long Mei Guo Mo Bang after it was found to contain sildenafil, a prescription drug ingredient that was not declared on the product label. Sildenafil is a prescription only drug used to treat erectile dysfunction and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Sildenafil can cause potentially life-threatening high blood pressure. Individuals with heart problems are at increased risk of cardiovascular side-effects such as heart attack, stroke, chest pain and abnormal heart beat. Other side effects include headache, indigestion, dizziness and abnormal vision.
Ginseng Tu chong Wan Lin Heong is promoted for treatment of arthritis and joint pain.
Ginseng Tu chong Wan Lin Heong The Singapore Health Sciences Authority warned consumers not to use Ginseng Tu chong Wan Lin Heong after it was found to contain dexamethasone, a drug ingredient that was not declared on the product label. Dexamethasone is a steroidal prescription only drug used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and allergic reactions. It should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Side effects associated with dexamethasone include irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, stomach ulcer, blood disorders, skin, muscle and bone damage, and nervous system disorders. Consult with your healthcare professional prior to stopping use, as sudden discontinuation of dexamethasone may cause symptoms of withdrawal.
Source: MHRA
