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The Department of Health (DH) today (April 4) appealed to members of the public not to buy or consume a slimming product called Yanhee Slim as it is suspected to contain undeclared and banned drug ingredients that might be dangerous to health.
During the DH's market surveillance, a sample of the above slimming product was purchased through a mobile communication application for analysis. Test results from the Government Laboratory revealed that the product contains sibutramine.
The DH's 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 an increased cardiovascular risk. According to the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap 138), illegal sale or possession of Part I poison is an offence. The maximum penalty for each offence is a fine of $100,000 and two years' imprisonment.
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 healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control.
Members of the public who have purchased the above product should stop using it immediately. They should consult healthcare professionals for advice if in doubt or feeling unwell after using it. They may submit it to the DH's Drug Office at Room 1856, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, during office hours for disposal.
Ends/Friday, April 4, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:02
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