21-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) Health authorities in Singapore have issued a warning after an eczema cream, Euzema Confidence Revival Cream, was discovered to contain over 430 times the permitted limit of arsenic. The cream, which is sold on a Malaysian retail website as well as the local e-commerce platform Carousell, was one of four products identified by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) to contain potent or banned ingredients.
A man in his 30s developed a skin reaction called purpura after using the cream for eczema for a year. His doctor suspected that the adverse reaction was caused by realgar, a mineral containing arsenic that was listed as an ingredient on the cream. The doctor promptly reported the case to the HSA.
The cream, marketed as a powerful natural formula that is steroid-free and contains 100 percent all-natural herbs with no side effects, was subjected to testing by the HSA. The tests revealed alarmingly high levels of arsenic, as well as significant amounts of betamethasone (a potent steroid) and salicylic acid.
Arsenic, a toxic heavy metal, can cause skin irritations, contact dermatitis, rashes, and skin peeling. Prolonged use of products containing high levels of arsenic can even lead to arsenic poisoning. Betamethasone, if used inappropriately without medical supervision, can have serious adverse effects on the body. Sudden cessation of long-term steroid use without medical supervision may result in withdrawal symptoms such as adrenal insufficiency, leading to confusion, muscle and joint pain, low blood pressure, and seizures.
Salicylic acid, commonly used to treat skin conditions like acne and psoriasis, can cause dryness, irritation, and redness when used excessively.
The HSA has urged individuals who have used the Euzema Confidence Revival Cream to seek medical attention as soon as possible. It also advised caution when purchasing products that claim miraculous recovery or contain undisclosed ingredients, as these can pose significant health risks.
In addition to the eczema cream, the HSA received reports from the public regarding the sale of three weight loss products: HONEY Q Dietary Supplement Product, SLIME 7D ADVANCE Slimming Pill, and FINOs. Despite claiming to be herbal and natural, these products were found to contain potent medicinal ingredients, including sibutramine, benzyl sibutramine, fluoxetine, and orlistat. Sibutramine, specifically banned in Singapore since 2010 due to increased cardiovascular risks, was previously used as a prescription weight-loss medicine.
Consumers who have used these weight loss products are advised to discontinue usage and consult a doctor if they experience any adverse effects or have concerns about their health. The HSA emphasized that weight control should be achieved through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise, and individuals seeking assistance in managing their weight should consult healthcare professionals.
To ensure safety, the HSA cautioned against purchasing products from unknown or unfamiliar online sources, stressing the importance of buying from reputable pharmacies or retailers with a presence in Singapore. Manufacturers and sellers found to be supplying adulterated products may face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
As the HSA continues its investigations, it has collaborated with local platform administrators to remove the listings of affected products. The agency has also informed its Malaysian counterparts about these products, as they were advertised to be manufactured in Malaysia and sold by Malaysian-based sellers or websites.
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and exercise caution when purchasing healthcare products, prioritizing their safety and well-being.
