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The Department of Health (DH) today (April 1) instructed an importer, Tai Woo Trading Company Limited (Tai Woo) in Yau Tong, Kowloon and a licensed wholesaler of proprietary Chinese medicine (pCm), Point Sincere in San Po Kong, Kowloon, to recall from consumers a suspected unregistered pCm, named "Chun Lung Muscle Rub". Although the pCm bears a registration number HKP-09903 on its label and package insert, this registration number in fact belongs to another registered pCm.
The appeal followed the DH's investigation into a complaint related to the above pCm. Preliminary investigation by the DH revealed that the pCm had been imported from the Mainland by Tai Woo and had not been registered with the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong (CMCHK). Tai Woo then supplied the pCm to Point Sincere and the pCm was further distributed to other retailers.
"According to its label, the suspected unregistered pCm was indicated for relieving muscle pain. Use of unregistered pCm may pose threats to public health as their safety, quality and efficacy are not proven. While the DH's investigation is ongoing, no related adverse reports have been received so far. Tai Woo and Point Sincere have set up hotlines at 2721 6636 and 2381 2488 respectively 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 for the offence is a fine of $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 pCm to stop using it immediately and submit the product to the Chinese Medicine Division of the DH on 16/F, AIA Kowloon Tower, Landmark East, 100 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, during office hours for disposal. They should consult healthcare 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/Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Issued at HKT 20:37
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