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SINGAPORE: An elderly man from Singapore has been hospitalized after consuming a health product containing an undeclared ingredient, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) reported on Friday (November 30th).
The man, who is over 70, bought the supplement called Pil Raja Urat Asli from street vendors in Geylang and Chinatown, and took it to relieve his legs.
He later developed Cushing's syndrome, a condition caused by prolonged use of steroids. Symptoms include a "moon-facing" appearance and upper-body obesity with thin limbs.
"This has been caused by the long-term use of steroids, such as dexamethasone, which have been fraudulently added to the product," HSA said.
Authorities also issued a warning regarding two other health products: XXS xtraxtrasmall and Best Nutrition Products Diabotica in 500 mg capsules.
"Undeclared" powerful western medicinal ingredients have been found in the products, HSA said.
Sibutramine – a prohibited substance for weight loss – was found in XXS xtraxtrasmall, while mycophenolic acid, used to suppress immunity in autoimmune diseases, was found in the capsules of Diabotica.
XXS xtraxtrasmall is sold online, while Best Nutrition Products Diabotica is sold in local outlets.
HSA announced that it had initiated a product recall in stores and ordered websites to remove the list of products.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE TAKEN THESE PRODUCTS
Consumers who have taken XXS xtraxtrasmall and Best Nutrition Products Diabotica are advised to stop taking them immediately and to consult a doctor if they feel unwell.
Those who have taken Pil Raja Urat Asli should consult a doctor as soon as possible because it contains a potent steroid, said HSA.
He also advised consumers to be wary of health products with quick effects or that look too good to be true, and avoid buying health products from street vendors.
The public should also be cautious when buying such products online, he added.
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