Health Sciences Authority (HSA) Warns Singapore Health‑Schlooper About Fake “Herbal” Bullets
On Monday (Nov 14) the HSA sounded the alarm at a pair of folks who took some “miracle capsule” and cream products that turned out to be a toxic cocktail of powerful drugs. Below is the dose‑mean version of the press release, with a sprinkle of humor to keep you alert:
What’s on the Menu? Caps & Creams
The HSA specifically flagged:
- AlphaMiracHerbs capsules
- Shu Jin capsules
- Jolicare baby cream, collar collagen cream and the original cream
And when people bought these items online or from a well‑meaning friend, they were hitting a hidden list of dangerous ingredients. Don’t pretend you’re a chemist – the list already says it all.
The Puzzling Poison By the Numbers
| Product | Suspected Origin | Ingredient Dump |
|---|---|---|
| AlphaMiracHerbs | Malaaysia‑supplied via a friend’s network | dexamethasone, chlorpheniramine, ibuprofen, lovastatin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline |
| Shu Jin | Malaysian pharmacy source | dexamethasone, chlorpheniramine, atorvastatin |
| Jolicare creams | Online e‑commerce / social media | minuscule dexamethasone, clobetasol, chloramphenicol, ketoconazole |
Why Is This Bad?
- dexamethasone – a steroid that can create Cushing’s syndrome and spike blood sugar, potentially turning a healthy man into a diabetic.
- clobetasol – a super‑strong anti‑inflammatory steroid that’s basically a bomb in a paste.
- chloramphenicol & tetracycline – antibiotics that can cause serious side effects if taken without prescription.
- ketoconazole – an antifungal that’s fine at the right dosage but can wreak havoc on the liver if you’re misusing it.
Real‑Life Drama
One 60‑something woman took Shu Jin for decade‑long joint pain relief, only to be rushed to the hospital after abruptly stopping it. She suffered fever, dizziness, joint aches and a stubborn loss of appetite. Doctors diagnosed osteoporosis and adrenal insufficiency – the body’s “steroids ran out and the alarm didn’t fire.”
Another man, also in his 60 s, gained 10 kg and a round face after a three‑month bout with AlphaMiracHerbs for a skin flare. He became a living Cushing’s syndrome poster‑child.
How We’re Cleaning Up
The HSA worked hand‑in‑hand with e‑commerce platforms to pull the offending listings. Investigations into the sellers are still in the works, and the plan is to keep Singapore’s citizens from swiping “miracle” capsules that are actually a multi‑drug crash crew.
What You Must Do If You’ve Been Involved
1⃣ If you’ve taken any of these capsules or creams, see a doctor asap. Don’t wait for a mild rash to become a warning sign. The best doctor you’ll get for this “wild card” kit is a real one.
2⃣ Ask your pharmacist for help if you suspect a product might be “dodgy.” They can verify whether a medication is genuine.
3⃣ In the future, steer clear of products promising lightning‑fast relief or claiming “works for everyone, including babies and pregnant ladies.” Those overselling posters are often a sign the product is a sneaky product monster.
Possible Penalties for the Sneaky Sellers
Solders who distribute adulterated products can face up to three years in prison, fines up to $100,000, or both – because the government wants to make sure the market stays safer.
Extra Advice: Stay Skeptical, Stay Safe
- When something seems too good to be true (or too cheap), it likely is.
- Never use a cream on a newborn’s delicate skin unless a doctor explicitly clears it.
- Remember: “If it’s a capsule, it’s probably a refinery of something in addition to that one thing.”
Health is the one area not to gamble. So, next time you consider a “miracle” remedy, grab your doctor instead – and keep the HSA’s warnings in your pocket. It’s the safest way to stay on top of your health!
