UAE warns against using some diet supplements

dubai — The Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) has issued nine circulars, warning against using some dietary supplements recommended for sports exercises. The circulars are based on an advisory issued by Health Canada on the dietary supplements since they contain a pharmaceutical substance which can only be dispensed with a doctor’s prescription.

The ministry said the dietary supplements contain a substance called ‘Rauvolfia’, which can cause some side effects such as depression and breathing difficulties. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

The food supplements contain a substance called ‘Yohimbine’, which is a prescriptiononly medicine. The supplement could place hypertensive patients’ life at risk and is not recommended for heart patients and those with kidney and liver problems.

The circular said the affected dietary supplements are not registered with the ministry, and are only sold online though some websites and social media.

The products can cause some side effects such as depression, tiredness, drowsiness, nose blockage and breathing difficulties. ‘Yohimbine’, which is only prescribed under a doctor’s supervision, can cause increased blood pressure, increased heartbeat rates, dizziness, headache, nausea and sleeping disorders.

According to the circular, The harmful products include: Psychotic workout supplement, Nuclear workout supplement, 5150 workout supplement, Plasmajet workout supplement, Animal test workout supplement, NutraKey yohimbine HCl, Promatrix yohim-B active and Lipo6 black.