
Health authorities warn against dangerous health products with harmful ingredients
Health authorities warn against dangerous health products with harmful ingredients
- The Health Sciences Authority cautioned against four products linked to serious health issues.
- Adverse effects reported included high blood pressure and insomnia in users.
- Immediate actions were taken to halt sales and investigate sellers and suppliers.
Story
In Singapore, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) issued a public warning on March 18, 2026, against four specific health products due to serious health risks. Three individuals reportedly experienced severe adverse effects, such as high blood pressure and insomnia, after consuming these products. The products in question are Ubat Angin Tulang, Tianma Duzhong Shujing Wan, IM SO am, and IM TOX pm, which are marketed for pain management and slimming respectively. Following ongoing investigations, the HSA found that these products contained potent medicinal ingredients that are either banned or unlisted. Ubat Angin Tulang, ostensibly for knee pain, led to a woman in her 60s gaining weight and developing elevated blood pressure after consuming it for three months. The product was procured from a makeshift stall in Jurong, with further investigations revealing its illegal procurement methods across Singapore. The HSA found that it contained three potent medicinal ingredients: dexamethasone, furosemide, and chlorpheniramine, which raise significant health concerns when taken without medical supervision. The seller associated with the product was identified as having sourced it from Malaysia. Tianma Duzhong Shujing Wan was similarly scrutinized; despite marketing claims involving herbal ingredients, the HSA discovered the presence of steroids and other harmful substances. IM SO am and IM TOX pm, marketed as dietary supplements for weight loss, were also flagged for containing a banned substance, sibutramine, and an undeclared laxative, sennosides. Such findings have spurred action from the HSA in collaboration with online marketplaces to remove these products from listings. With the ongoing investigation into sellers and suppliers, the HSA emphasized the importance of monitoring the use of such products and the grave implications of using unregulated health supplements. Consumers are urged to avoid these identified products and consult healthcare professionals if adverse symptoms arise. The HSA affirmed its commitment to taking strict measures against entities that distribute harmful and unregulated health products, underscoring the need for public awareness and vigilance regarding health and dietary supplements.