Banned product may cause liver damage

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OTTAWA, July 16 (UPI) -- Fu Fang Zaoren Jiaonang, an unauthorized natural health product promoted for anxiety and/or insomnia could damage organs, Canadian officials said.

Health Canada officials confirmed the presence of the ingredient L-tetrahydropalmatine that could damage vital organs such as the liver about two weeks after exposure -- most notably in pregnant women -- and removed the product from sale in Canada.

"Fu Fang Zaoren Jiaonang was distributed by the Dong Phuong Trading Co. and found being sold at Fu Ji Herbal, a retail store in Markham, Ontario," a statement by Health Canada said. "Please note that this product may also be sold elsewhere. As of July 10, Health Canada had received one adverse reaction report associated with the use of this product. The person experienced tiredness, weakness, headaches and nausea."

Fu Ji Herbal has given what it says is its remaining stock of Fu Fang Zaoren Jiaonang to Health Canada and the department was told the distributor, Dong Phuong Trading Co., is no longer in business, officials said.

"Health Canada would like to remind Canadian retailers that the sale of health products is governed by the Food and Drugs Act and its regulations, and that selling unauthorized products is against the law," the statement continued. "Retailers found selling unapproved products may have them seized by Health Canada or by various law enforcement authorities."