TGA recall Lida Daidaihua slimming capsules

Recall of Lida Daidaihua Slimming Capsules

Health alert

19 October 2007

ISSUE

A South Australian company, Mekong Grocery, upon instructions from Australia’s medicines regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), is undertaking a consumer level recall of the product Lida Daidaihua Slimming Capsules as it contains an undeclared pharmaceutical ingredient. Lida Daidaihua Slimming Capsules is not currently approved for supply in Australia.

Consumers who have purchased this product are warned not to use it and to consult a medical practitioner if they have taken it and have concerns about their health.

ACTIONS BY THE TGA

The TGA became aware on 17 October 2007 that a South Australian based company has been illegally supplying “Lida Daidaihua Slimming Capsules”.
Testing of “Lida Daidaihua Slimming Capsules” by the TGA has revealed that it contains a derivative of sibutramine, a prescription only substance that should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
The TGA has instructed the supplier of “Lida Daidaihua Slimming Capsules”, Mekong Grocery, to cease supplying the product and initiate a consumer-level recall. The supplier has ceased supplying and promoting these goods through its website.
In April 2006, a similar product was the subject of a consumer alert issued by Health Canada. The alert reported that the product was found to contain sibutramine. At the time, the TGA had no evidence that any product was being supplied in Australia.
Information for consumers can be found on the TGA website at www.tga.gov.au.

Media contact: Kay McNiece 0412 132 585