Press Release

Public urged not to buy or consume slimming product with undeclared and banned drug ingredient

15 September 2014

The Department of Health (DH) today (September 15) appealed to members of the public not to buy or consume a slimming product, namely Slim Perfect Legs, as it contains an undeclared and banned drug substance.

Following the DH operation against two slimming products known as Slim Perfect Arm and Slim Perfect Legs, both found to contain sibutramine, on July 14, it was found that Slim Perfect Legs was being offered for sale in another channel via mobile phone application. Sample of the product, with different packing design from the previous one, was purchased for analysis. Result from the Government Laboratory revealed that the slimming product contained sibutramine, a banned drug ingredient.

DH investigation is continuing.

Sibutramine is a Part I poison and was once used as an appetite suppressant. Since November 2010, products containing sibutramine have been banned in Hong Kong because of increased cardiovascular risk.

According to the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap 138), Part I poisons should only be sold at pharmacies under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Illegal sale and possession of Part I poisons are criminal offences. The maximum penalty for each offence is a fine of $100,000 and two years' imprisonment.

Members of the public who have purchased the above product should stop consuming it immediately. They should consult health-care professionals for advice if feeling unwell or in doubt after use.

A DH spokesman strongly urged members of the public not to buy products of unknown or doubtful composition, or consume products from unknown sources. Weight control should be achieved through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise. The public should consult health-care professionals before using any medication for weight control.

People who have purchased the products may submit the product to the Drug Office of the DH at Room 1856, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, during office hours for disposal.