Press Release

Public urged not to consume product with undeclared drug ingredients

9 Apr 2009

The Department of Health (DH) today (April 9) urged people not to buy or use a brand of slimming product called C M Factor as it was found to have contained undeclared drug ingredient that may cause serious side effects.

The appeal was made following the department's investigations into an enquiry from a public who claimed to have developed palpitation and loss of appetite after consuming the product.

The spokesman said that product sample had been purchased from a retail shop in Mong Kok earlier according to the information provided by the public. Laboratory tests on the sample today showed the presence of sibutramine.

Sibutramine is a western medicine used as appetite suppressant for slimming under close medical supervision. Its side effects include increased blood pressure and heart rate, symptoms of psychosis, and possibly convulsion. People with heart problems should not take it.

Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, it must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and can be sold only on a doctor's prescription and under supervision of a pharmacist.

The department mounted an operation today, resulting in the seizure of some 400 boxes of the product from its wholesaler and the retail shop.

The spokesman appealed to people who had been using the product to stop using it immediately. They should consult medical professionals for advice if they felt unwell.

They should destroy and dispose of the products or submit them to the department's Pharmaceutical Service at 3/F, Public Health Laboratory Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon during office hours.

The spokesman stressed that a balanced diet and exercise were crucial factors in keeping fit and healthy. People who want to lose weight are advised to consult medical professionals.