The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The Hospital Authority (HA) spokesperson today (June 22) said that in view of the decision made by the supplier of the digestive drug Enzyplex this afternoon to suspend the supply and sale of the drug due to suspected contamination, the Authority will dovetail to cease dispensing the specific drug in all public hospitals with immediate effect. Patients must seek advice from healthcare professionals for any related queries.
Earlier in the day, the HA Central Committee on Infectious Disease and Emergency Responses convened a special meeting with representatives from the Department of Health to deliberate and follow up on the drug contamination incident. It was concluded that monascus found in the drug will not cause any health hazard to a normal healthy person. However, there is a possible risk of infection among immuno-compromised patients.
The HA has reviewed the clinical records and confirmed that there have been no reported cases of monascus infection in public hospitals over the past five years.
Enzyplex tablet, containing vitamins and digestive enzymes, is an over-the-counter drug for digestive disorders. There are currently around 4 000 patients in public hospitals being prescribed with the drug.
The HA will continue to follow up and co-operate with the Department of Health in the investigation.
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