The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is alerting members of the public not to purchase or consume three products marketed online for slimming. HSA’s analysis of these products showed that they contained the banned substance sibutramine, which can cause adverse effects such as palpitations, nausea, extreme thirst, migraine and/or dizziness after consumption.
The three products are:
- Magic Mocha
- Thao Moc Ho Tro Giam Beo Cenly
- Cynthia Beauty EazyS Instant Coffee Powder
HSA received reports from three consumers who experienced the above mentioned adverse effects. Do note that the continued intake of these products could have led to serious health consequences such as heart problems and central nervous system disorders (e.g. psychosis and hallucinations).
Sibutramine was a prescription-only weight loss medicine but was banned in Singapore since 2010 due to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Other serious adverse effects reported in the past by consumers who took products adulterated with sibutramine include insomnia and hallucinations. In 2019, a consumer experienced extremely fast heart rate and became unconscious. She was resuscitated but suffered debilitating consequences requiring the implantation of a defibrillator to help her heart function.
The three listed products were sold on local e-commerce (Carousell, Lazada, Shopee and Qoo10) and social media (Facebook and Instagram), and were marketed with misleading claims which included “fast-acting”, “fat-burning”, “reduce fat storage” and “accelerate the breakdown of stubborn fat”.
HSA has issued warnings to the sellers and the platform administrators have since removed the affected listings.
If you have purchased any of these three products, you are advised to stop taking them immediately and to consult a doctor if you feel unwell or are concerned about your health.
As we always advocate here at The Wellness Insider, there’s no quick and easy way to lose weight through pills or drink. It is all about eating right and exercising!
Images: Health Sciences Authority
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