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DH investigates suspected illegal possession of unregistered proprietary Chinese medicine (with photo)
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     The Department of Health (DH) is today (March 4) investigating a suspected case of illegal possession of an unregistered proprietary Chinese medicine (pCm) called TRILEX Herbal Tea for Eliminating Heat and Detoxicating by a licensed Chinese medicines trader, HealthWorks (International) Company Limited, in Hi Yip Street, Yuen Long, New Territories.

     The preliminary investigation by the DH revealed that the above unregistered pCm was imported from Korea. HealthWorks then performed packaging locally before its distribution to the market. According to the Chinese Medicines Board under the Chinese Medicine Council of Hong Kong (CMCHK), the above pCm had not been registered.

     "According to its label, the above pCm may be used in relieving symptoms of discomfort in the throat. Use of unregistered pCms may pose threats to public health as their safety, quality and efficacy are not proven. While our investigation is ongoing, no related adverse reports have been received so far," a spokesman for the DH said.

     The DH noted that HealthWorks had voluntarily recalled all batches of the above pCm from consumers as a precautionary measure, and set up a hotline (2408 0333) for related enquiries. The DH will closely monitor the recall.

     According to section 119 of the Chinese Medicine Ordinance (Cap 549), no person shall sell, import or possess any pCm unless it is registered. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty for the offence is a fine of $100,000 and two years' imprisonment. Upon completion of the investigation, the DH will work with the Department of Justice on prosecution matters and will also refer this case to the CMCHK for consideration of possible disciplinary action.

     The DH urged members of the public who have purchased the above pCm to stop using it immediately and submit it to the Chinese Medicine Division of the DH on 16/F, AIA Kowloon Tower, Landmark East, 100 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, during office hours for disposal.

     "The public should consult health-care professionals if feeling unwell and should not self-medicate without seeking medical advice," the spokesman advised.

     Members of the public may visit the CMCHK's website (www.cmchk.org.hk/pcm/eng/#main_listpcm.htm) for the list of registered pCms.

Ends/Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Issued at HKT 19:04

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