People have been warned against using unlicensed drugs, especially dietary supplements and cosmetics.
Dr Amin Al Amiri, at the Ministry of Health, said the ministry received a circular from Interpol regarding an unlicensed product marketed as DNP, used as a supplement for slimming, which poses serious risks to people’s health.
The ministry said it received a report from French authorities about serious side effects from using the product.
Dr Al Amiri, who also chairs the higher committee for pharmaceutical vigilance in the UAE, said the product is sold in the form of yellow powder, in capsules or even as an ointment. Side effects include excessive sweating, glowing yellow urine, and pale and yellowish skin.
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