Press Release

Slimming product found containing undeclared western drug ingredients

14 Mar 2008

The Department of Health (DH) today (March 14) called on members of the public not to buy or use a brand of slimming product called "纖之瘦" which was found to contain two undeclared western drugs phenolphthalein and sibutramine, both of which can cause serious side effects.

The appeal followed investigations by the Department into a product named "纖之瘦II". A product named "纖之瘦" had been seized during the Department's inspection in a shop in Mong Kok yesterday (March 13) for investigation. Laboratory results on product samples available today found the presence of phenolphthalein and sibutramine in the product.

Phenolphthalein was used for treating constipation and has been banned for its cancer causing effect.

Sibutramine is an appetite suppressant which may cause increase blood pressure and heart rate. Under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, it must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board and can only be sold on a doctor's prescription and under supervision of a pharmacist. Possession or sale of unregistered pharmaceutical product is liable on conviction to a $100,000 fine and two years' imprisonment.

A DH spokesman said, "This slimming product is not a registered pharmaceutical product in Hong Kong."

Members of the public who have used the product are advised to stop taking it immediately and seek advice from healthcare professionals if they feel unwell.

He said, "Weight control should be achieved by observing good diet and appropriate exercise. They should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control."

Anyone who has the slimming product in their possession should dispose of the product themselves or submit it to the department's Pharmaceutical Service at 3/F, Public Health Laboratory Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon during office hours.