More tainted drugs removed from shops

03/06/2011  'Super-C chewable tablets' was one of five pharmaceutical products recalled yesterday by local authorities  The local health authority has recalled five more drugs allegedly tainted with a toxic plasticiser manufactured in Taiwan. According to a press statement released by the Health Bureau (SSM) yesterday, the Hong Kong health authorities found plasticiser DEHP in 'Well Tab' a medicine for stomach discomfort manufactured by China Chemical & Pharmaceutical and Pharm Company Limited, Taiwan. The product was found to contain DEHP at a level of 1.2 ppm (parts per million). According to the Hong Kong Department of Health, the level of DEHP is considered unlikely to cause acute harmful effects if taken according to the recommended dosage. Apart from recalling 'Well Tab', the Hong Kong authority also endorsed the voluntary recall of four pharmaceutical products manufactured by Marching Pharmaceutical Limited even though no plasticiser was found. However, the sample of flavouring agent contained DEHP at a level of 1.1 ppm. Although no DEHP was found in the products, the manufacturer offered to conduct a voluntary recall of all of them. The products are for Vitamin C supplement and dietary supplement for joints and cartilage respectively. These products – 'Cebio Chewable Tablet', 'Cevizo Vitamin C chewable tablets', 'Super-C chewable tablets' and 'Arthritil Powder for Oral Solution' – and 'Well Tab' have all been imported into Macau. The SSM has asked local pharmacies, drug stores and distributors to remove these products from the market. The health authority has also called on the public not to use these drugs, if they have purchased them. On Tuesday an anti-gastric acid drug in syrup form, 'Scrat Suspension Standard', was also recalled after examinations discovered DIBP, one of the 16 types of plasticisers that should not be used in food. Plasticisers such as DEHP and DIBP could cause hormonal disturbance and affect the male reproductive system if overused and consumed for a long time.The SSM director, Lei Chin Ion, stressed that plasticisers will largely be excreted within 24 hours after ingestion, calling on the public to "drink more water" if they suspect that they have consumed this toxic chemical. Meanwhile, the results of random tests conducted on Macau's Taiwanese-style food and beverage retail shops should be released today. On Monday, deputy director of the Economic Services Bureau Tai Kin Ip said random tests had already begun in Macau's Taiwanese-style food and beverage retail shops.The Consumer Council has also requested all the Taiwanese-style beverage stores under its certified shop program to submit proofs of the source of raw materials. Taiwanese authorities have arrested the owner of a company that used DEHP rather than more expensive palm oil in products supplied to dozens of local drink makers. He faces up to six months in jail.