PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry has confiscated eight unregistered "health products" worth RM1.7 million, which contain dangerous substances.
Director-general of Health Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the products were Cala Huala, Cala Plus, ATC Herbs, SBS Miracle Herbs, MR, Candy B+, Soloco and Catuaba.
He said they contained Tadafil, Ibuprofen, Tetracycline HCL, Chloramphenicol, Dexamethasone, Cholorphenirame, Clarithromycin and Lovastin.
“The ministry, through its pharmacy enforcement division, raided 16 premises in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, following complaints and information from the people.
“Other products which contain Sibutramine (slimming agent) and Tadalafil (sex stimulant) were also seized for further investigations.
“All the products were seized under the Poisons Act 1952 and the Sale of Drugs Act 1952.”
Dr Noor Hisham said, for unregistered products, the cases would be investigated under the Poisons Act 1952 which carries a penalty of a fine not more than RM25,000 or imprisonment of not more than three years, or both for offences committed by an individual, upon conviction.
For subsequent wrongdoings, the convicted individual could face a penalty of RM50,000 fine and a jail term of not more than five years, or both.
Companies are liable to a penalty of RM50,000 for the first offence and RM100,000 for subsequent offences.
Dr Noor Hisham said for products which contained dangerous substances, the cases would be investigated under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952 which carries a fine of not more than RM3,000 and a jail term of not more than one year, upon conviction.
The ministry also warned those who sell, distribute and consume the products as they contain substances which are hazardous to health and increase the chances of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke.
He also urged the public to lodge a report if they see the products being sold. Reports can be made via www.pharmacy.gov.myAT or 03-7841 3200.