FDA warns public against using 6 unregistered drugs

MANILA, Philippines—The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned the public, on Tuesday, against using six unregistered drug products circulating in the market, mostly injectible vitamins and whitening products, thyroid hormone medication and pain relieving creams.

In an advisory, the FDA identified these products as the following:

* Thyroid USP (Westernized TH-1/4) 16.25mg tablet;

* Phospatidylcholine+Deoxycholic acid 50 mL vial;

* Lidocaine (SM Cream) 9.6% 30g cream;

* Ascorbic Acid 500 mg/2mL solution for injection manufactured by Arrow Pharma Group in New Zealand;

* Reduced L-Glutathione (Reiki) 600 mg powder for injection; and,

* Reduced L-Glutathione (Reiki) 1,200 mg power for injection.

FDA officer in charge Nicolas Lutero III said samples of the unregistered products were collected from various establishments in Taytay, Rizal.

He added that field FDA regulation officers have been directed to confiscate these unregistered products found in the market.

“All local government units and law enforcement agencies are requested to ensure that these products are not sold or offered for sale in their localities or area of jurisdiction,” said the FDA official.

Lutero also warned all drug establishments and outlets that importation, distribution and sale of products not registered with the FDA would be meted sanctions and penalties stipulated in the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009 and the Special Law on Counterfeit Drugs.

He also reminded consumers to purchase their medications only from FDA-licensed establishments and to always look for the FDA registration number on the product label to ensure their safety.

“Please note that product evaluation and registration is a measure that the government undertakes to ensure the safety and efficacy of health products,” said Lutero.

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