INDUSTRY NEWS/HEALTH CANADA WARNING: Herbal diet product's undeclared ingredient may pose health risks: Health Canada

Retailers should be informed of an unauthorized health product called Herbal Diet Natural, which, according to Health Canada, contains an undeclared ingredient that may pose serious health risks. Retailers should be aware of this warning from Health Canada in order to inform consumers, as well as be aware of the ingredient risk.

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Herbal diet product's undeclared ingredient may pose health risks: Health Canada

(CP) – 15 hours ago

OTTAWA — Health Canada is warning consumers about an unauthorized health product called Herbal Diet Natural, which contains an undeclared ingredient that may pose serious health risks.

Herbal Diet Natural is not authorized for sale but has been found on the Canadian market. It contains an undeclared ingredient similar to sibutramine, a prescription drug used to treat obesity that can be especially risky for people with heart problems.

In an advisory Thursday, Health Canada said consumers who have purchased Herbal Diet Natural should consult their doctor if they have used the product or if they have health concerns.

Sibutramine may cause serious side-effects, including such cardiovascular reactions as increased blood pressure, chest pain and stroke.

According to the product label, Herbal Diet Natural also contains glucomannan for weight loss. Health Canada says natural health products containing glucomannan in tablet, capsule or powder form - which are currently on the Canadian market - are potentially harmful if taken without at least 250 millilitres of fluid.

The risk includes choking and-or blockage of the throat, esophagus or intestine. These products should never be taken immediately before going to bed, the federal department stressed.

Health Canada is working with the Canada Border Services Agency to stop future importation of Herbal Diet Natural and says consumers should return the product to the place of purchase.

To date, no adverse reactions have been reported in Canada.

Consumers requiring more information can contact Health Canada's toll-free public inquiries line at 1-866-225-0709.

SOURCE: Canadian Press/Health Canada Press Release