Are you on a daily or weekly tablet? Keep reading because your pill might have been recalled.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) works to ensure that all drugs out on the market reach safe health regulations and international standards. In line with their cause they have recently issued health warnings and recalls on several drugs. These include commonly used ones used as dietary supplements, contraceptives, and drugs for indigestion.
Get the rundown below:
Shedfat Maxx capsule
The Ministry’s laboratory for Quality Control and Research of Medical and Health Products has found out that the Shedfat Maxx capsule, a weight loss product contains yohimbine which is banned worldwide. This drug specifically causes drops in blood pressure and psychological symptoms. This drug is not registered with Department and has been recalled.
Kratom
Kratom, a food supplement which is sold in the form of capsules, tea, and coffee on websites including krakenkratom.com, ciosa.comsoulspem, and phytoextractum.com has been recalled by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products may contain salmonella bacteria, which may cause poisoning and symptoms, such as fever, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Omacid Chewable tablets
Produced by Oman Industries Co. National Pharmaceutical, the Saudi Drug and Food Administration has recalled one batch of Omacid Chewable tablets. The medicine is used to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion but it has not passed the Assay test. Although the product is not available in the UAE, the Department has still issued a warning against it if it enters the local market.
Depakine
Depakine has not been recalled but the drug commonly used for anti-epilieptic purposes may have some effects when interacted with estrogen-containing contraceptives. Depakine, which contains valproate, does not affect the effectiveness of estrogen-containing products; however estrogen containing products can accelerate the elimination of valproate form the body might lead to a decreased effect. Health care professionals are advised to monitor their patients.
If you experience any side effects from these or other medical drugs you can call the Ministry at 04-3201448 or e-mail at pv@moh.gov.ae