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The Department of Health (DH) today (March 27) instructed a licensed wholesaler of proprietary Chinese medicines (pCms), Man Hing Medical Suppliers (International) Ltd, located at 13/F, So Hong Commercial Building, 41-47 Jervois Street, Central, Hong Kong, to recall from consumers two suspected unregistered pCms, namely RYUKAKUSANDIRECT Stick Peach Flavor and RYUKAKUSANDIRECT Stick Mint Flavor.
The appeal followed the DH's investigation into a complaint related to the above pCms. Preliminary investigation by the DH revealed that both pCms were imported from Japan by Man Hing for sale in Hong Kong and have not been registered with the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong (CMCHK).
"The use of unregistered pCms may pose threats to public health as their safety, efficacy and quality have not been proven. While the DH's investigation is ongoing, no related adverse reports have been received so far. Man Hing has set up a hotline at 2544 8005 for related enquiries. The DH will closely monitor the recall," a DH spokesman explained.
"According to Section 119 of the Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap 549), no person shall sell, import or possess any pCm unless the pCm is registered. The maximum penalty is $100,000 and two years' imprisonment. Upon completion of the investigation, the DH will work with the Department of Justice on prosecution matters. The DH will also refer this case to the CMCHK for consideration of possible disciplinary action," the spokesman added.
The spokesman urged members of the public who have purchased the unregistered pCms to stop using them immediately and submit the products to the Chinese Medicine Division of the DH on 16/F, AIA Kowloon Tower, Landmark East, 100 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong, during office hours for disposal. They should consult health-care professionals if they feel unwell.
Members of the public may visit the website of the CMCHK (www.cmchk.org.hk/pcm/eng/#main_dis.htm) for the list of registered pCms.
Ends/Thursday, March 27, 2014
Issued at HKT 19:05
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