PUTRAJAYA, April 15 — The public are advised not to purchase or consume unregistered Chinese traditional medicines known as Dong Mai Tan and Seven Leave Ginseng as they have been found to contain dexamethasone, a corticosteroid medicine controlled under the Poisons Act 1952.
Director-general of Health Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said this was revealed through tests conducted by the National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB).
He said further check also found that the registration number printed on the labels of Dong Mai Tan (MAL20013016T) and Seven Leave Ginseng (MAL19984210T) were fake.
“The NPCB has received four reports concerning the adverse effects associated with Dong Mai Tan consumption and eight on Seven Leave Ginseng.
“Among the serious adverse effects are liver failure, Cushing’s syndrome with red round face (moon face) and weight gain with central obesity,” he said in a statement here today.
Dr Noor Hisham said the labels on both products stated that they were used for treatment of inflammation and pain in the joints, back pain and muscle pain.
Those currently consuming the products are advised to immediately seek medical advice and treatment, but those who have been consuming it for a long time should not stop drastically as it could lead to other problems associated with the withdrawal syndrome, he said.
He explained that dexamethasone used in the treatment of swelling and serious inflammation problems could only be supplied by doctors or obtained from pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription, and it was never allowed to be used as an ingredient in traditional medicines.
“Prolonged consumption of dexamethasone without health experts’ supervision can result in serious side effects such as muscle weakness, bone loss, increase in blood sugar, high blood pressure, cataract, increased risk of infection and Cushing’s syndrome.
“Diabetic persons have the highest risk as it can cause the blood sugar level to be out of control that may lead to serious complications,” he said.
Dr Noor Hisham said possession and sales of the products are offences under the Sales of Drugs Act 1952 and the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.
Individuals found to have committed the offences are liable to a fine not exceeding RM25,000 or imprisonment up to three years or both for the first offence or fine not exceeding RM50,000 or jail not more than five years or both for subsequent offence.
Direct sales companies found to have committed the offences could be imposed a fine of up to RM50,000 for the first offence and fine up to RM100,000 for subsequent offences upon conviction.
Consumers are welcomed to check the registration status of products at www.bpfk.gov.my or by contacting the NPCB at 03-78835400. — Bernama
