The Department of Health (DH) today (June 19) appealed to the public not to buy or consume a slimming product named SPARKLE TWINS as it was found to contain an undeclared and banned drug ingredient that might be dangerous to health.
The DH commenced investigation upon receipt of a notification from the Hospital Authority (HA) regarding a 29-year-old female patient admitted to hospital for emotional disturbance with a history of consuming the above slimming product.
According to testing results by the HA, which were later confirmed by the Government Laboratory, the sample of the product provided by the patient was found to contain the banned substance sibutramine.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the patient purchased the product through a social media network platform. The DH's investigation is continuing.
Sibutramine was once used as an appetite suppressant. Since November 2010, products containing sibutramine have been banned in Hong Kong because of increased cardiovascular risk.
The DH spokesman strongly urged members of the public not to buy products of unknown or doubtful composition, or to consume products from unknown sources. Members of the public who have purchased the above product should stop consuming it immediately. They should consult healthcare professionals for advice if feeling unwell after consumption.
Weight control should be achieved through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise. The public should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control.
The public may visit the website of the Drug Office of the DH for health messages on overweight problem and slimming products and information on slimming products with undeclared Western drug ingredients.
People who have purchased the product may submit it to the Drug Office of the DH at Room 1856, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, during office hours for disposal.
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