Health Canada

 Health Canada,   Sep 19, 2006

2006-92
September 19, 2006

Advisory
For immediate release

OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning consumers not to use the natural health product Libidus because it contains an undeclared pharmaceutical ingredient, a modified form of vardenafil, which is similar to the active pharmaceutical ingredient found in the prescription drug Levitra. The use of Libidus could pose serious health risks, especially for patients with existing medical conditions such as heart problems, those taking heart medications, or those at risk for stroke.

Libidus is advertised as a natural sex enhancer for men and women and is not authorized for sale in Canada. The Canadian importer has been contacted and is recalling the product. Consumers who have purchased Libidus are warned not to use it and to consult with a health professional if they have used the product and have concerns about their health.

Products containing vardenafil should not be used by individuals who are taking any nitrate medication because combining these products could result in the development of potentially life-threatening low blood pressure.

The use of products containing vardenafil has also been associated with serious side-effects which include serious cardiac events such as heart attacks. In rare cases, the use of vardenafil may result in penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency.

This product is manufactured in Malaysia by Bio-Gulf Sdn Bhd and imported into Canada for distribution by NorthRegentRX, of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The text in this article was prepared by Health Canada.