Health Canada, Jun 19, 2002
2002-38
June 19, 2002
Warning
Health Canada is warning Canadians not to use seven herbal supplements: Arthrin, Osporo, Poena, Neutralis, Oa Plus, Ra Spes and Hepastat
OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning Canadians not
to use seven herbal products manufactured in the United States by
BotanicLab because they contain undeclared prescription drugs that
could cause serious health effects if not taken under medical
supervision.
The undeclared prescription drugs are:
Indomethacin, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with marked
pain-killing and fever-fighting properties. Indomethacin is not to
be used in patients with gastrointestinal problems and is known to
interact with many other drugs. Combined use of indomethacin and ASA
is also not recommended.
Diethylstilbestrol (DES), a nonsteroidal estrogen and is known to
be a human carcinogen. Any undisclosed amount of DES in a product is
hazardous. No amount is acceptable for consumption.
Alprazolam, an anti-anxiety drug sold under various brand names
in Canada. Alprazolam exacerbates the effects of alcohol and other
sedating drugs and can be addictive.
The herbal products in which the undeclared prescription drugs
are found are marketed as Traditional Chinese Medicines for
different indications as shown below:
-
Arthrin Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin, DES, and alprazolam, marketed for “supporting joint
movement”.
-
Osporo Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin and DES, marketed for “a healthy skeletal system”.
-
Poena Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin, marketed for “relaxing muscles; supporting
tissues”.
-
Neutralis Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin, marketed as “immune system formula”.
-
5OA Plus Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin and alprazolam, marketed for “soothing joints and
tendons”.
-
RA Spes Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin and alprazolam, marketed for “promoting flexibility
and extension”.
-
Hepastat Capsules: contains undeclared
indomethacin, marketed as “liver formula, detoxifying and
protecting the liver”.
The capsules are sold by mail, over the phone and on the
Internet, as well as by various distributors and health care
professionals.
Health Canada advises those who have taken these products to stop
doing so and consult their health care practitioner.
Health Canada is working with importers to recall any remaining
products in Canada.
Consumers are advised only to use drug products that carry an
eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN) on the label. The DIN
indicates that Health Canada has assessed the product for safety,
effectiveness and quality, and has authorized it for sale in
Canada.
The text in this article was prepared by Health Canada.