FDA warns public against consuming slimming product
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers to beware of a slimming product called “Mang Luck Capsule”, which claims to be made from sweet basil (ocimum basilicum) and helps “eliminate” excessive fat in the body, thus “accelerating weight loss” for overweight people.
“The FDA tested the product, which has not received approval, and found that it contains sibutramine, an appetite suppressant which is illegal in Thailand,” said vice secretary-general Supattra Boonserm.
“The unauthorised manufacturing, importing, exporting, selling or possessing of sibutramine is punishable by a maximum 20 years' imprisonment and/or a Bt2-million fine,” she warned.
“Sibutramine is a dangerous substance, especially for those who have heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease or glaucoma, and for pregnant women,” she said.
“The side effects include a dry month, headache, insomnia, constipation, high blood pressure, accelerated heartbeat and even death.”
The FDA together with the police have already launched an investigation into the manufacturer and/or importer of the product.
Supattra said the FDA investigated the product after receiving complaints from consumers, who saw advertisements for the capsule online and doubted its effectiveness in eliminating fat as claimed.
“If you wish to lose weight, the safest ways are to go on a diet and exercise regularly,” she added. “For those who have information about illegal slimming products, contact FDA hotline 1556 or the agency via the Oryor mobile application.”
