The TGA advises that the distributor has initiated a recall of Slimming Factor pills (also known as Easy Trim, Que She and Chinese Herbal Diet Pills) as they pose a serious health risk.
These products have been marketed as herbal weight-loss supplements. The products have been distributed via the Melanotan 2 Facebook page
Testing by the Therapeutic Goods Administration has found that these products contain medicines not referenced on the product labels.
TGA laboratory analyses have confirmed the presence of the potentially dangerous substances sibutramine, fenfluramine and phenolphthalein in addition to paracetamol, lignocaine and propranolol in this product.
Sibutramine was a prescription-only medicine supplied in Australia until it was withdrawn in October 2010 because a major study revealed that it caused an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Fenfluramine was withdrawn from the Australian market in 1997 due to it causing damage to the valves in the heart and pulmonary hypertension. Phenolphthalein was previously used as an oral laxative, but is no longer available in Australia due to the cancer risk associated with its long-term use.
Slimming Factor pills should not be taken as they may be harmful and can cause symptoms including headaches, dizziness and dry mouth.
Slimming Factor pills have been illegally supplied in Australia, as they are not listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and, as such, have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety or efficacy, as required under Australian law. Also, the place of manufacture is not approved by the TGA.
Information for consumers
If you have any Slimming Factor pills (also known as Easy Trim, Que She and Chinese Herbal Diet Pills) stop taking them and take any remaining tablets to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.
If you know of another person using the products, please advise them of the recall.
If you have any questions or concerns arising from your use of Slimming Factor, contact your health professional.
The TGA advises consumers to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines from internet sites.
Products purchased online:
- may contain undisclosed and potentially harmful ingredients
- may not meet the same standards of quality, safety and efficacy as those approved by the TGA for supply in Australia.
Reporting problems
Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to report problems with medicines or vaccines. Your report will contribute to the TGA’s monitoring of these products.
The TGA cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medicine or vaccine.