DOH warns public on slimming capsule

CEBU, Philippines - For those who want to slim down hastily, there’s a product from China that reportedly guarantees users of losing weight safely in 10 days.

But the Department of Health (DOH) said users must think twice before buying Zhen De Zhou as it was recently declared as unsafe and dangerous by the department’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

DOH Circular No 2009-0277 declares Zhen De Zhou products as “imminently injurious, unsafe or dangerous,” ordering their recall from public sale or distribution.

FDA has verified that the products, which come in capsule and tea, are not duly registered, and found out through laboratory examinations of numerous samples that it contains amphetamine, sibutramine and/or sildenafil.

“It must be noted that amphetamine is classified as a prohibited substance while sildenafil and sibutramine are known active ingredients of prescription drugs for erectile dysfunction and weight loss respectively,” the circular states.

Amphetamine is a stimulant and an appetite suppressant that is now considered an illegal drug due to its addictive effects. One can become physically and psychologically dependent, and withdrawal effects may occur if a user stops taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use.

Sibutramine, on the other hand, is generally use for weight loss in conjunction with low calorie diet. But its side effects may include increase blood pressure and pulse as well as nausea and dizziness.

“Products containing any such ingredients which are being sold liberally in the market without the benefit of approval undisputedly pose imminent danger or injury to the consuming public,” added the circular.

Grace Cordona, food and drugs regulation officer of DOH-7, reported that of the 18 outlets they inspected, two were found to be selling Zhen De Zhou. Around 1,200 capsules were seized from both outlets.

Cordona reminded the public that before buying any products that require an intake, they should check the label if it has the drug registration (DR) number or Food Registration (FD) number. This number comes with the BFAD seal.

Cordona said that only those products registered with the BFAD are declared safe for consumption.

She added that they are awaiting further notice from the central office on what will be the sanctions on these outlets selling unregistered products because under the law, selling of unregistered products are prohibited to ensure safety of consumers. — Jessica Ann R. Pareja/LPM   (FREEMAN NEWS)