DH reminds public not to give or resell prescribed drugs to others
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     ​The Department of Health (DH) today (March 22) reminded members of the public that it is an offence to give or resell prescribed drugs to others. Patients should take their prescribed medications after consultation according to the doctor's instructions.
      
     Subsequent to a media report that some patients may have obtained a slimming drug named Panbesy from a medical practitioner for resell purpose, the DH and the Police conducted a joint operation today and raided the concerned clinic. The investigation is ongoing and no person has been arrested so far.
      
     Panbesy, containing phentermine, is a drug for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe obesity. Adverse effects of phentermine include insomnia, tremor, tachycardia, impotence and myocardial infarction. Sudden death after taking phentermine has also been reported.
      
     According to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap. 134), phentermine is a dangerous drug, and trafficking in dangerous drug, including illegal sale or import/export, is an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5,000,000 and life imprisonment.
      
     A DH spokesman stressed that phentermine (or Panbesy) is a dangerous drug and it is not indicated for long-term use. Patients who have been prescribed with the drug should strictly follow doctor's instructions. They should not resell (including supply without payment) the drug to others.

Ends/Wednesday, March 22, 2023
Issued at HKT 18:30

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