Canada issues flu virus products warning

OTTAWA, May 4 (UPI) -- Health Canada is advising consumers not to purchase products claiming to fight or prevent the H1N1 flu virus, also known as swine flu.

Federal officials said although there are approved anti-viral drugs that might help prevent or reduce the symptoms associated with the flu in general, there are no products authorized for sale in Canada that are indicated specifically for the treatment of the H1N1 flu virus.

"Anti-virals such as Tamiflu (oseltamivir) or Relenza (zanamivir), which are authorized in Canada, can be effective in the prevention or early treatment of influenza," officials said. "The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends limited use of anti-virals to treat H1N1 flu virus and only on the recommendation of the patient's doctor when the illness is moderate to severe and if the patient is at high risk of complications of influenza."

Health Canada also warned against the purchase of products claiming to be "generic" versions of drugs sold under the brand names Tamiflu or Relenza.

"Health Canada has not authorized generic versions of these drugs," the agency said. "Taking unapproved or counterfeit drugs could pose serious risks to health. These products may contain active ingredients not listed on the label or dangerous additives, and could cause serious side effects."