- Health Sciences Authority warns public about “Setia Herba” product.
- Product contains powerful steroids and anti-inflammatory painkiller.
- Consumers advised to seek medical help immediately if used it.
Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority uncovers dangerous ingredients in a supposedly natural health product, prompting urgent warnings to consumers.
HSA Alert on Setia Herba
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has issued a urgent warning to the public about a product called Setia Herba.
The product was being sold online through popular e-commerce platforms in Singapore.
HSA has taken swift action to remove all listings of it from these platforms.
Product Details and Claims
The product label of Setia Herba made several misleading claims.
It stated that the product contained “100% authentic herbs”.
The label also claimed the product was “safe to eat”.
Setia Herba was marketed as a “traditional health product solution”.
It claimed to relieve various medical conditions, including joint pain and gout.
To add credibility, the product was marketed with a “laboratory test certificate”.
Harmful Ingredients and Effects
Contrary to its claims, HSA tests revealed that this product contained dangerous ingredients.
The product was found to contain:
- Two powerful steroids (dexamethasone and prednisolone)
- An anti-inflammatory painkiller (diclofenac)
These ingredients can cause serious health problems when used without proper medical supervision.
Long-term steroid use can lead to increased blood sugar, high blood pressure, cataracts, and other health issues.
Diclofenac can cause serious gastric bleeding and cardiovascular events like heart attacks and stroke.
Advisory to Consumers
HSA has issued clear guidelines for consumers who may have purchased or used Setia Herba.
“Do not stop taking it suddenly as it contains steroids and may cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, confusion, and low blood pressure, especially when it has been taken for more than a few weeks.”
Consumers are advised to see a doctor if they have used this product.
The public is reminded to be cautious when buying health products, especially from unknown sources online.
It’s always safer to purchase health products from trusted pharmacies or retailers.
Consumers should be wary of products that claim to have miraculous results or “no side effects”.
Advisory to Sellers and Suppliers
Health Sciences Authority has also issued a stern warning to sellers and suppliers of Setia Herba.
All sellers are instructed to stop selling the product immediately.
The authority has made it clear that it will take action against those found selling adulterated products.
Sellers and suppliers caught may face serious consequences, including:
- Imprisonment for up to 2 years
- A fine of up to S$10,000
This case highlights the importance of consumer safety in health products.
It also underscores the need for vigilance when purchasing health products, especially those making extraordinary claims.
Do you think stricter regulations are needed for online sales of health products in Singapore?
