One cosmetic product and one health product tested by the Laboratory of Pharmacy Section, Department of Scientific Services, Ministry of Health (MoH) have been found to be adulterated with banned ingredients or scheduled poisons listed in the Poisons Act 1956.
The affected cosmetic product is RISSA SKIN Skin Treatment Losyen containing tretinoin, while the affected health product is HKT Herba Kurus Tradisi manufactured by Qayra Beauty Empire containing sibutramine.
The adulterant found in these products can cause adverse effects that are potentially hazardous to those using them.
Tretinoin is a potent ingredient used in western prescription medicines to treat skin conditions and is prohibited in skincare cosmetic products under Medicines (Cosmetic Products) Regulations. Inappropriate use of tretinoin could lead to redness, peeling and scarring of the skin.
Sibutramine is a body slimming agent that is no longer recommended for its use in obesity treatment because its effects can be detrimental to the heart and the liver. Intake of sibutramine can also cause serious adverse effects such as high blood pressure, uncertain heartbeat and difficulty sleeping; and in the worst cases, it can cause damage to the kidneys and liver.
The MoH has not issued any approval for the importation for the sale of the health product and has now withdrawn the Cosmetic Notification Letter for the affected cosmetic product. Following these findings, the products are not allowed to be imported and sold in the Sultanate.
Members of the public who have purchased or used these products are advised to stop using them immediately. They should also consult a medical practitioner if they feel unwell or experience any undesirable reactions as a result of using them.
