12-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has flagged three weight loss products sold on Shopee for containing a banned toxic substance. Nature Slim, Slimming Seven Days by Figure Up, and Energy Booster Figure-Up New Look Strong Version were marketed as “natural” or “herbal” but were discovered to contain high levels of sibutramine.
Members of the public have been advised against purchasing or consuming these products, as they pose health risks. Two individuals reported adverse effects after using two of the products.
One consumer experienced rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, and extreme thirst after consuming Nature Slim for two months. Initially, she was told by a friend that these side effects were normal due to the product’s supposed ability to enhance metabolism. However, after learning from a previous HSA press release that sibutramine could cause such effects, she became suspicious and filed a report with HSA.
Another consumer experienced dry mouth, extreme thirst, and insomnia after taking Slimming Seven Days by Figure Up for a few days. This product was marketed as a traditional solution for weight loss and appetite suppression.
HSA’s analysis revealed that both Slimming Seven Days by Figure Up and Energy Booster Figure-Up New Look Strong Version contained dangerously high levels of sibutramine.
Sibutramine is a prescription-only weight loss medicine that has been banned in Singapore since 2010 due to its association with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Other serious health consequences include heart problems and central nervous system disorders, such as psychosis and hallucinations. HSA has previously received reports of consumers experiencing adverse effects like hallucinations, palpitations, breathlessness, and hearing voices after using slimming products adulterated with sibutramine.
The products in question were labeled as containing herbal ingredients like green tea, cactus, and raspberry extracts. Slimming Seven Days by Figure Up was falsely labeled as “100% natural,” while Nature Slim claimed to contain a “botanical extract.” Additionally, the products featured misleading “GMP” logos, giving the impression of high-quality standards certified by Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
HSA strongly advised consumers to stop using these products immediately and seek medical attention if they feel unwell. It emphasized the importance of avoiding purchases from unknown or unverifiable sources and exercising caution when buying products online or from overseas. Determining the origin and composition of such products can be challenging, including the possibility of adulteration with harmful substances.
HSA warned that stern enforcement actions would be taken against sellers and suppliers of adulterated products, including prosecution. Offenders may face imprisonment of up to two years and/or fines of up to S$10,000 (US$7,500).
