Singapore's health authorities have cautioned people against using two local health products that promise easy relief to pain after it was found that they contained as many as six undeclared potent ingredients.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore said Longred Oyster-x and LifeSparks 100% Natural Pain Relief Supplement were found to contain ingredients like chlorpheniramine, dexamethasone, diclofenac, paracetamol, piroxicam and sulphamethoxazole.
The makers of Oyster-x say it contains oyster powder that improves circulation and promote health while LifeSparks pain pills offered relief for gout, arthritis and aching joints, HSA said.
"Both products were distributed by Paul Harrison International Pte Ltd, and were sold directly to consumers from their office in Ubi. Following HSA's investigation and directive to the company, it has since stopped the sales of the products," the HSA said in a statement.
The authorities said a patient in Singapore who consumed these pills took ill though it gave momentary pain relief.
A male patient in his 60s took 'LONGRED Oyster-x' to prevent prostate problems, and 'LifeSparks 100% Natural PAIN RELIEF SUPPLEMENT' for his leg pain and gout, HSA said. "Within a day, he experienced rapid pain relief. After a week, he developed severe gastric pain and facial swelling. He sought treatment from a general practitioner and has since recovered."
The regulator issued a detailed advisory on what people who have been using these medicines should do now.
Those who have taken the product should seek medical attention if they are feeling unwell or are concerned about their health, it added.
However, if they were using 'LifeSparks 100% Natural PAIN RELIEF SUPPLEMENT' then stopping it immediately will can cause serious withdrawal symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, confusion and low blood pressure, especially if they have been consumed for more than a few weeks. They should Consult a doctor as soon as possible, HSA said.
Paul Harrison International Pte Ltd, which distributes the pills, said it is working with HSA to investigate the matter.
