UAE Health Ministry orders withdrawal of two dietary supplements

Weight-loss and stamina-enhancement products contain ingredients that may be harmful to heart and diabetes patients, according to chairman of the Higher Pharmaceutical Vigilance Committee.

DUBAI // The Ministry of Health and Prevention has ordered that some dietary supplements for weight loss and male sex enhancement be taken off the market as their ingredients may pose risks to health.

“These contain undeclared and unregistered ingredients that may be harmful to health and well-being of heart and diabetes patients or those taking products that contain nitrates,” Wam, the state news agency, quoted Dr Amin Al Amiri, assistant under-secretary for public policy and licensing at the Ministry of Health and Prevention and chairman of the Higher Pharmaceutical Vigilance Committee, as saying.

The ministry had told health authorities and their partners to remove these products from outlets, stop distribution and import, Dr Al Amiri said.

He appealed to the public not to be tempted by misleading and spurious ads on social media about herbal supplements that could reduce weight and increase sexual performance.

Dr Al Amiri said the Ministry was warned by the US food and Drug administration about the ingredients of a product called Stiff Bull Herbal Coffee.

The FDA has advised consumers not to purchase or use it.

FDA laboratory analysis said the product contained desmethyl carbodenafil, which may interact with some prescription drugs and lower blood pressure to dangerous levels.

The ministry’s alert also warned of Zi Su Body Fat Health, a product promoted for weight loss, which consumers were advised not to purchase or use as it contained a controlled substance.