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SINGAPORE: A traditional Chinese medicine has been found to contain illegal ingredients that can cause serious adverse reaction.
The drug, "Huo Luo Jing Dan", was said to promote blood circulation and relieve aches and pains, including rheumatism and arthritis. It is sold in a dark coloured plastic bottle with a gold-coloured label that contains small red capsules.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has warned the public not to consume the product because it contains potent, undeclared Western medicines that cause dangerous side effects like increased blood pressure, weak bones, stomach ulcers and kidney failure.
A 50-year-old woman who had been taking the drug for several years developed swelling of the throat, following an infection that did not heal quickly. Her face also swelled to a 'moon face', caused by prolonged corticosteroid consumption.
Her doctor alerted the authorities after he suspected that she had suffered from an adverse effect from the product and was hospitalised.
The patient has since recovered and was discharged from the hospital after discontinuing the product.
Investigations revealed that the manufacturer printed on the label, China Tian Jin Ren Ji, is fraudulent and does not exist. The friend from whom the patient originally purchased the product also could not be contacted.
The HSA advises members of the public who had bought the product not to consume it and to seek medical attention immediately if they feel unwell after taking this product.
It also reminds consumers to be wary of products that promise a quick cure for serious conditions.
Anyone who is aware of the illegal sale of this product should call the HSA Enforcement Branch's 24-hour hotline at 6866-3485 or email to hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg. - CNA/ha/al
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