Health Canada, Feb 15, 2002
2002-02
February 15, 2002
Warning
Health Canada warns public not to use Hua Fo
OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning consumers not to use Hua
Fo tablets, an unapproved herbal product that claims to enhance
sexual function. Health Canada analyzed samples of Hua Fo tablets
and found that they contained sildenafil. Sildenafil is a drug
approved as prescription only for male erectile dysfunction, sold
under the brand name Viagra. Use of sildenafil without medical
supervision could cause severe adverse reactions.
Sildenafil should not be used by individuals who are taking any
nitrate medication sold by perscription or over the counter. Nitrate
medications are commonly used for angina. Concurrent use could
result in the development of potentially life-threatening low blood
pressure. In extremely rare instances, use of sildenafil could
result in penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency.
To date, there have been no adverse drug reactions reported to
Health Canada, involving the use of Hua Fo. However, consumers who
have used Hua Fo should contact their physicians.
Hua Fo is manufactured in China by Guizhou Ribulo Medical
Industry Inc. and sold in Canada by Shenlong Company. The product is
packaged in white plastic bottles containing red, round tablets. The
bottles have a red label with the following directions for use: "300
mg. 50 tablets, Dosage: For adults only, take 2 tablets twice
daily."
Health Canada is issuing this warning to advise consumers, health
care professionals, and the provincial Ministries of Health of the
safety issues related to the use of Hua Fo. Health Canada is also
working with the importer of the product to ensure its removal from
the market.
The text in this article was prepared by Health Canada.