HSA updates on products found overseas that contain potent ingredients (December 2023)

The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) intends to inform the public about items discovered and reported by international authorities in December 2023. These items were found to contain powerful components that are prohibited in these products and could lead to adverse effects.

The general public is advised to:

• Seek medical advice if they have consumed any of the products and are experiencing discomfort.
• Refrain from purchasing these products while overseas.
• Exercise caution when buying health-related items online or from unfamiliar sources, whether local or international.
• Approach products that promise rapid or miraculous outcomes with skepticism
• Seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist when managing acute and chronic medical symptoms and conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, eczema).

Additionally, the public is encouraged to visit the following link: https://www.hsa.gov.sg/consumer-safety/ to gain a deeper understanding of the risks associated with purchasing health products from dubious sources.

Please refer to Annex A and Annex B for the list of products and the possible side effects of the potent ingredients. If members of the public encounter the sale or distribution of these products within Singapore, they are encouraged to reach out to HSA’s Enforcement Branch via telephone at 6866 3485 during office hours (Monday to Friday) or through email at hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg.

Annex A – List of product and its potent ingredient

Annex B – possible side effects of the potent ingredient

• Aminocaproic Acid:
  • Medication for bleeding disorders; misuse may lead to allergic reactions and anaphylaxis.
• Corticosteroids:
  • Potent steroids (e.g., Betamethasone, Clobetasol) for inflammatory conditions; unsupervised use can cause various issues like high blood glucose, high blood pressure, and Cushing’s syndrome.
• Frusemide:
  • Prescription diuretic; misuse may result in side effects such as loss of appetite and low blood pressure.
• Hydroquinone:
  • Skin treatment ingredient; prohibited in cosmetics; improper use may cause skin color changes and hypersensitivity reactions.
• Levodopa:
  • Parkinson’s Disease medication; potential interactions with high blood pressure medications; side effects include low blood pressure and irregular heart rate.
• Mercury:
  • Toxic substance; prohibited in cosmetics; regular use may lead to skin issues and organ damage.
• NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs):
  • Medications like aspirin and ibuprofen; prolonged use may cause gastric bleeding, nausea, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular events.
• Paracetamol:
  • Pain reliever; accidental overdose can lead to liver damage.
• PDE-5 Inhibitors (e.g., Sildenafil):
  • Medications for erectile dysfunction; may cause serious side effects like strokes, heart attacks, and priapism; unsuitable for certain medical conditions.
• Prasterone (DHEA):
  • Hormone associated with cancer risk; side effects include cardiovascular disease, fertility changes, and high blood pressure.
• Sibutramine / N-desmethyl Sibutramine:
  • Previously used for weight loss; banned due to heart attack and stroke risks; associated with high blood pressure and hallucinations.
• Tretinoin / Retinoic Acid:
  • Skin treatment ingredient; prohibited in cosmetics; misuse may lead to skin redness and peeling.
• Yohimbe / Yohimbine:
  • Potent medicinal ingredient; side effects include insomnia, anxiety, and overdose may lead to severe complications, including death.

HSA: Health Sciences Authority

Link to the HSA announcement: https://www.hsa.gov.sg/announcements/safety-alert/hsa-updates-on-products-found-overseas-that-contain-potent-ingredients-(december-2023)

Only Authentic Products and Genuine Medical Supplies, at POM Marketplace!
Login or Register now to access our comprehensive range of medical supplies.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is intended solely for healthcare professionals for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, POMConnect assumes no liability for errors or omissions. The content here should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. POMConnect does not endorse specific treatments or external websites linked from this page. Please note that the information is accurate at the time of publication and does not account for any modifications or updates made to the original research article after its initial publish date. POM Marketplace is accessible to qualified healthcare professionals only. Any unauthorized access or use by individuals who do not meet this criteria is prohibited.