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A 26-year-old woman was arrested today (January 9) in a joint operation by the Department of Health (DH) and the Police in Kwun Tong for suspected illegal sale of a product named "Duromine Capsules 30mg", labelled as containing a dangerous drug substance.
Upon the investigation of a public complaint, the DH found that the above product was offered for sale through a mobile phone communication application. The seller was arrested by the Police during the operation for suspected trafficking in a dangerous drug.
"Duromine Capsules 30mg" is labelled as containing phentermine, which is a substance controlled under the Dangerous Drug Ordinance (Cap 134). Phentermine is used for the short term treatment of moderate to severe obesity. Side effects include tachycardia, palpitations and hypertension. It is also a prescription drug which should only be used under the direction of a medical practitioner. It can only be sold at a pharmacy by a registered pharmacist or under his supervision upon a doctor's prescription.
The investigation is continuing.
According to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in dangerous drugs is a criminal offence and the offender is liable to a maximum penalty of $5,000,000 fine and life imprisonment upon conviction.
A DH spokesman strongly urged members of the public not to buy or consume products of unknown or doubtful composition or from unknown sources.
"People who have purchased the product via the above channel should stop consuming it and consult healthcare professionals immediately. They should submit it to the Drug Office of the DH at Room 1856, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, during office hours for handling," the spokesman said.
"Weight control should be achieved through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise. The public should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control," the spokesman said.
Ends/Thursday, January 9, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:55
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