Potent drug tadalafil found in shells of Tongkat Ali capsules
By Lau Joon-Nie, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 08 May 2009 2026 hrs

	Photos  of

SINGAPORE: In the first case of its kind, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has detected the potent prescription drug tadalafil in the shells of capsules marketed as a traditional herbal supplement for men.

HSA has ordered a sales suspension and recall of XP Tongkat Ali Supreme from the market.

The capsules, distributed by CTI Biotechnology Pte Ltd and sold in retail shops and over the Internet, were touted as 100 per cent natural.

On the basis that it contained only the herbal ingredients declared on its label, this product would be considered as a form of traditional medicine and is sold in Singapore without any registration or pre-market approval from HSA.

But HSA says the taladafil was impregnated in the capsule to try and avoid analytical detection of the adulterant.

Taladafil is the active ingredient in the prescription medicine cialis, which is used to treat male erectile dysfunction and should only be prescribed by a doctor.

Consumption can cause serious adverse reactions such as heart attack, stroke and severe hypotension, particularly in susceptible individuals with heart conditions and/or who are taking nitrate drugs.

HSA warns the public not to buy or consume XP Tongkat Ali Supreme.

Members of the public seeking further clarification about the recall or wishing to report illegal activities involving health products can call HSA's 24-hour hotline at 6866-3485 or email hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg.

- CNA/yt