Singapore's Health Sciences Authority Issues Warning

In a startling announcement, Singapore's Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has issued an urgent warning against four health products after they were found to contain potent or banned ingredients that can lead to serious health complications.

Case Study: Tong Mai 9 Gu Jiao Rou

Among the alarming cases is a man in his 50s who developed severe health issues after taking Tong Mai 9 Gu Jiao Rou, a product he purchased from a vendor at a coffee shop in Ang Mo Kio, hoping to manage his eczema. After consuming these pills daily for nearly two years, he required emergency surgery for a perforated gastric ulcer and suffered from Cushing's syndrome along with thinning and bruising of the skin. His doctor ultimately attributed his medical issues to the adulterated nature of the product.

Investigation Findings

The HSA's investigation found that Tong Mai 9 Gu Jiao Rou contained dangerous substances, including the steroid dexamethasone and painkiller piroxicam, both of which can lead to significant adverse effects.

Another Dangerous Product: EZ Empire Be Perfect

Additionally, another product named EZ Empire Be Perfect, marketed as a natural supplement for 'healthy weight gain,' led to troubling side effects for a female consumer who bought it on the e-commerce platform Shopee. After just ten months of use, she not only gained over 10kg but also experienced rashes and fatigue after ceasing the product for a mere three days. Her symptoms echoed those associated with Cushing's syndrome and steroid withdrawal, prompting further investigation.

More Products Under Scrutiny

The alarming dangers didn't stop there. The HSA warned against two additional products: Re5hape Hi Morning and Re5hape Bye Night. A recent incident involved a woman who reported chest pain after using these products, which were sold via Instagram as part of a 'health sculpting programme.' Although marketed as containing natural ingredients, laboratory analysis revealed the presence of banned substance sibutramine in Re5hape Hi Morning, and laxatives (sennosides) in Re5hape Bye Night.

Regulatory Actions and Consumer Safety

In a bid to protect consumers, HSA acted swiftly to remove these listings from Carousell and Shopee, and they've vowed to crack down on sellers of these harmful products. Offenders could face up to two years in jail or fines up to $10,000.

Consumer Advisory

HSA's Group Director of Health Products Regulation, Associate Professor Chan Cheng Leng, noted that although the agency actively monitors the market for illegal health products, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and only purchase health items from trusted sources. He stated, 'While HSA conducts surveillance and testing of health products on the market, we urge consumers to be discerning and buy health products only from reputable sources.'

Conclusion and Resources

For consumer safety, a list of illegal health products is available on the HSA's official website. Remember, what seems natural might not always be safe. Stay informed, stay healthy!