SINGAPORE \u2013 The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has warned consumers against using a herbal product \u2013 HW Beauty Serbuk Campuran Kurma, Madu & Limau Kasturi, or HW Beauty Dates, Honey & Calamansi Powder Mix in English \u2013 as it contains three ingredients that can cause serious adverse effects, including acute kidney injury.<\/p>\n
In a statement on Nov 19, HSA said tests revealed that the product contained two potent steroids, dexamethasone and prednisolone, as well as anti-inflammatory painkiller diclofenac.<\/p>\n
The authority had received reports that some people who had consumed the product suffered acute kidney injury and Cushing\u2019s syndrome, a serious medical condition characterised by a round face or \u201cmoon face\u201d appearance.<\/p>\n
Two patients were hospitalised in November and have since been discharged. A review of these cases is ongoing.<\/p>\n
The authority said the HW Beauty product is marketed as a \u201ctraditional herbal supplement passed down through generations\u201d to relieve multiple medical conditions, including joint pain and gout.<\/p>\n
The product claims to be \u201csteroid-free\u201d and a \u201cgenuine product\u201d of \u201cpremium quality\u201d, which could deceive consumers into thinking that it is safe, said HSA.<\/p>\n
The two steroids in the product are prescribed for inflammatory conditions and can cause increased blood sugar levels, which can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, cataracts, and muscular and bone disorders such as osteoporosis. They can also increase the risk of infections and Cushing\u2019s syndrome, said HSA.<\/p>\n
The anti-inflammatory painkiller in the product can cause serious gastric bleeding, as well as cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and stroke when used over a prolonged period. It can also worsen kidney function in patients with pre-existing kidney problems.<\/p>\n
The three ingredients should be used only under strict medical supervision, said HSA.<\/p>\n
It advised those who have consumed the HW Beauty product to seek medical attention immediately.<\/p>\n
HSA added that it has worked with local e-commerce platform administrators Shopee, Carousell and Lazada to remove listings of the product and has asked that any future listings be removed as well.<\/p>\n
The product was also sold on social media platforms like TikTok and at local retail shops, added HSA.<\/p>\n
HSA warned sellers and suppliers to stop selling the product immediately, adding that it will not hesitate to take stern action against those who sell or supply products adulterated with potent ingredients.<\/p>\n
If found guilty, such sellers and suppliers may be jailed for up to two years and\/or fined up to $10,000.<\/p>\n
HSA advised consumers to steer clear of products from unverified sources, purchase from only trusted pharmacies or retailers and be cautious of products that claim miraculous results or no side effects.<\/p>\n
The authority also advised consumers to avoid products from unverified sources, purchase from only trusted pharmacies or retailers, and exercise caution with items that claim miraculous results or no side effects.<\/p>\n
Suspicious products can be reported to HSA\u2019s enforcement branch on 6866-3485 or hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg.<\/p>\n
Source: The Straits Times \u00a9 SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction<\/a><\/p>\n