New Zealand authorities issue warning on two herbal products

Tests by the Ministry of Health Medicines Safety Authority (Medsafe) have shown that the herbal weight loss product Li Da contains the prescription medicine sibutramine, which is prescribed for obese patients who have not been able to lose weight using a low-calorie diet and exercise.

Sibutramine (which is marketed as Meridia/Reductil by Abbott) can cause increased blood pressure and heart rate and cannot safely be taken by a range of people, including those with glaucoma, mental illness and severe liver or kidney problems. It should not be used in combination with other medicines such as some antidepressants and migraine treatments, Dr Poutasi says.

A second herbal product Nasutra, has been found to contain the prescription medicine sildenafil, which is prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Sildenafil, the active ingredient in Pfizer’s Viagra, is known to interfere with some heart medication and could be fatal to some individuals.

The two products were discovered following routine testing, surveillance activities and through information received by Medsafe.

Action is being taken with respect to the distributors of these products and further investigations by Medsafe are underway into the importation and supply of the products.

Dr Poutasi has recommended that consumers immediately stop taking the two products, and warned about the possible dangers of other herbal products.

“Consumers need to be cautious as there may be other herbal products at risk of containing prescription medicines or toxic substances,” Dr Potasi urged. “There are many examples in the international literature where ‘herbal’ products for the treatment of impotence or for weight loss have been found to contain prescription medicines.”