Public urged not to buy or consume slimming product from unknown sources or of doubtful composition (with photo)

     The Department of Health (DH) today (March 29) urged the public not to buy or consume a slimming product named SIN DEN BEAUTY SIM as it was found to contain undeclared and banned drug ingredients that might be hazardous to health.
 
     The DH received notification from the Hospital Authority (HA) regarding a female patient who experienced acute psychosis with a history of consuming the above slimming product.
 
     According to test results from the HA, which were later confirmed by the Government Laboratory, a sample of the product provided by the patient was found to contain the banned substances sibutramine and phenolphthalein. The DH's investigation is continuing.
 
     Sibutramine was previously used as an appetite suppressant but products containing sibutramine have been banned in Hong Kong since November 2010 due to increased cardiovascular risk. Phenolphthalein was previously used to treat constipation, but has been banned in Hong Kong due to its cancer-causing effect.
 
     The DH spokesman strongly urged members of the public not to buy products of unknown or doubtful composition, or 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. Members of the public should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control.
 
     The public may visit the website of the DH's Drug Office for health messages on overweight problems and slimming products (www.drugoffice.gov.hk/eps/do/en/consumer/slim.html) and information on slimming products with undeclared Western drug ingredients (www.drugoffice.gov.hk/eps/specMedsNews/slimming/en/consumer).

     People who have purchased the product may submit them to the DH's Drug Office at Room 1856, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, during office hours for disposal.