FDA warns public vs slimming juice

MANILA, Philippines - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yesterday warned the public against patronizing a slimming orange juice which was found to contain toxic substances.

In Advisory 2014-064, the FDA said Leisure Burn Body Fat Orange Juice, manufactured by America Huarui Sheng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., is also not registered with the agency.

FDA director general Kenneth Hartigan-Go said samples of the product collected by the field inspectors of the Department of Health in Tuguegarao City found the product to contain amphetamine and sibutramine, which are not stated in its label.

He said amphetamine is a “dangerous drug” and its sale, trading, administration, dispensation, delivery, distribution and transportation are unlawful under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

He said the FDA earlier suspended the manufacture, importation and distribution of all sibutramine products and sibutramine-containing products due to unnecessary cardiovascular risks to patients, as per FDA Memorandum Circular 2010-019.

The label of the product states that the juice can improve the body’s gastrointestinal function. Go ordered distributors, retailers, hospitals, pharmacies or clinics to discontinue the distribution, sale and use of the product.

He also directed the field officers of FDA to confiscate the product from the market and from individuals offering it for sale.

“All local government units and law enforcement agencies are requested to ensure that these products are not sold or offered for sale in their localities or area of jurisdiction,” he added.