Therapeutic Goods Administration warn of serious health risk posed by slimming product

The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a safety advisory notice in relation to a product know as Leisure Slimming capsules, which they warn "pose a serious risk to health and should not be taken."

Having tested the product, the TGA found that the capsules contain the undeclared substance sibutramine; and the capsules contain the undeclared substance phenolphthalein.

Highlighting that "the supply of Leisure Slimming capsules containing sibutramine and phenolphthalein is illegal", the TGA advise that sibutramine and phenolphthalein are both prescription-only substances in Australia.

The safety advisory continues "sibutramine was withdrawn from world markets in 2010 due to increased risk of cardiac events and stroke, and phenolphthalein was withdrawn from sale on many markets in the late 1990s due to concerns over its carcinogenicity with long term use.

"Leisure Slimming capsules have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety or efficacy as required under Australian legislation, and the place of manufacture is not approved by the TGA."

The TGA also advise that investigations have shown that a number of people in Australia may have bought the product online.

The TGA advise consumers to "stop taking Leisure Slimming capsules and take any remaining capsules to your local pharmacy for safe disposal" and that if consumers have any concerns arising from use of this product that they should consult their health care practitioner.

The TGA is now working with the Australian Border Force (ABF) to help stop future shipments of Leisure Slimming capsules from entering Australia and advise that if these capsules are found at the border by the ABF they will be seized and destroyed.

The TGA is advising consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines from unknown overseas Internet sites.

If you are worried about counterfeit medicines or medical devices, and want to report an issue, you can report the matter to the TGA on 1800 020 653. 

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