SINGAPORE:
A health warning has been issued by
Singapore authorities against an anti-itch herbal product after a woman who had
taken the capsules developed Cushing’s syndrome, which causes rapid weight gain
and a round “moon face”.
The
consumer, who is in her 40s, had taken the Hai Leng Hai Beh Herbal Itch
Removing Capsule (海龙海马止痒丸) capsules to relieve
an itchy skin condition, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) said in an
advisory on Thursday (May 5).
Although
the condition improved within a day of taking the capsules, she experienced
rapid weight gain and her face became puffy after consuming the product for
more than two months, HSA said.
She was later
diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome, which is characterised by a round or “moon
face”, and upper body obesity with thin limbs. The doctor reported the case to
HSA.
The
product was found to contain undeclared "potent Western medicinal
ingredients" dexamethasone, chlorpheniramine and paracetamol, although it
was labelled “100% herbal”, HSA said.
“Dexamethasone is a potent steroid that is
usually prescribed for inflammatory conditions and should only be used under
strict medical supervision. Long-term unsupervised use of oral steroids can
cause Cushing’s syndrome, increased blood glucose levels leading to diabetes,
high blood pressure, cataracts, muscular and bone disorders and an increased
risk of infections,” it said.
Although
the consumer had purchased the product overseas, HSA warned that it does not
rule out the possibility of the product being sold in Singapore.
Any
sellers in Singapore should immediately stop the sale and distribution of the
product immediately, it said. Offenders may face a fine of up to S$10,000 and
up to two years’ jail if convicted.
Members
of the public who have purchased or are consuming the capsules are advised to
consult a doctor as soon as possible. They should not stop the use of the
product immediately as the sudden discontinuation of steroids without proper
medical supervision can cause withdrawal symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, confusion
and low blood pressure, especially when it has been consumed for more than a
few weeks, HSA said.
CNA/cy
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