SINGAPORE – The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is warning members of the public against purchasing or consuming a herbal product containing a potent steroid, after an elderly woman who was taking it developed a serious medical condition.
Tests by HSA found that the herbal product Huang Niu Mu Zhong Feng Qing Cao Yao contained dexamethasone, a prescription medication usually used to treat inflammation, and which should be used only under strict medical supervision.
The woman, who is in her 70s, consumed the product for two months for joint pain, said HSA on May 20. She received it from a relative who had obtained it from a friend in Malaysia, it added.
During a routine health check, her doctor observed signs of Cushing’s syndrome, with characteristics of a rounded “moon face” appearance and abnormal fat accumulation above her collarbone.
“A laboratory test also revealed that she had a low cortisol level, which is likely caused by the steroid in the product suppressing the body’s natural cortisol production,” said the authority. This can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a serious medical condition, HSA added.
The woman’s doctor suspected the product was adulterated and reported the case to HSA. She has since recovered after she stopped using the product.
