SFA stops sale of M'sian weight-loss product containing substance that may cause diarrhoea
A Malaysian weight-loss product was found to contain a substance that may cause diarrhoea and other side effects.
The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) detected in Susenji MOFA+ a substance called sennosides, which is used for the relief of constipation.
Common side effects of sennosides may include abdominal pain, spasms, diarrhoea, and low potassium levels in the blood leading to muscle weakness and cramps.
Prolonged use of sennosides may lead to a lazy bowel (bowel muscles become too relaxed leading to less frequent bowel emptying, which may lead to long-term constipation) and dehydration.
Another weight-loss product, called Fabulous Boom Chocolate Flavour (translated from Malay), was found to contain a banned substance called sibutramine, which is listed in the Poisons Act (1938).
Banned in Singapore since 2010, sibutramine can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Other health consequences reported include heart problems and central nervous system disorders, such as psychosis and hallucinations. Seizures have also been reported.
The two products are sold on various local e-commerce platforms as weight-loss products with claims that they can suppress appetite, detoxify, control hunger, help digestion and accelerate metabolism.
SFA has worked with these platforms to remove the listings of the products and issued warnings to the respective sellers to stop selling the products with immediate effect.
Consumers who have purchased the implicated products should not consume it. Those who have consumed the implicated products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice.
