Health Ministry bans Nan Bao health product
PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry has banned the traditional health product, Nan Bao (capsule), as it contains sildenafil, a poisonous substance.
Health directorgeneral Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah yesterday said people must not buy or consume the product.
He said the registration of the product had been cancelled by the Drug Control Authorities following the detection of the substance.
“Sildenafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction. Medicine containing sildenafil can only be prescribed by doctors.”
He said using sildenafil without doctor’s advice could lead to impairment of vision and hearing, low blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.
Sidenafil and its analogs are not allowed in traditional medicine.
“This product is dangerous, especially to those with heartrelated problems and those who consume medicine which contain nitrate,” said Dr Noor Hisham.
He warned sellers and distributors to stop selling and distributing the product. “Selling and distributing the product is against the Sale of Drugs Act 1952 and the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.”
Those who commit wrongdoings under the two regulations are liable to a penalty of not more than RM25,000 or a jail term of not more than three years, or both, for the first offence, while for subsequent offences, they are liable to a penalty of not more than RM50,000 and a maximum five-year jail term.
Companies can be fined up to RM50,000 for the first offence and RM100,000 for subsequent offences.
“Those who are using this product are advised to stop consumption and seek the doctor’s advice if they suffer from any adverse effects,” said Dr Noor Hisham.
He said people could check the status of a health product via https//:npra.moh.gov.my or contact the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency at 03-7883 5400.