Singaporeans have been alerted over three medicines recalled for containing undeclared ingredients which could cause serious side effects.

Tested by the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA), which issued the alert, the products were either bought online or from overseas through friends. There was no list of ingredients on the labels, which are mandatory for complementary health products.

The products are: Huo Xue Qing Gan Jie Du Wan, containing dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine; Huang Niu Mu Shi Ni De Jiu Xing, containing dexamethasone; and Meizitang Botanical Slimming 100% Natural Soft Gel, containing diclofenac. ( pictured)
Bought overseas, the Huo Xue Qing Gan Jie Du Wan and Huang Niu Mu Shi Ni De Jiu Xing claim to be able to treat ailments such as  arthritis, liver disorders, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.

A man in his 40s has been hospitalised for Cushing’s syndrome (characterised by round face and upper-body obesity with thin limbs), joint pain, weight gain and insomnia after ingesting Huo Xue Qing Gan Jie Du Wan. The presence of dexamethasone (a steroid) in the product could have contributed to his medical condition.

Sold online and claimed to be free of side effects, the slimming gel was found to contain the painkiller diclofenac.
Dexamethasone is usually prescribed for inflammatory conditions, and should be taken only under strict medical supervision. Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergic reactions such as rhinitis, and should be used only under medical supervision by a pharmacist or doctor. Adverse effects include drowsiness, blurred vision, vomiting, constipation and poor co-ordination. Diclofenac may cause gastric bleeding, as well as cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and stroke. It should be used under close medical supervision, especially when there is an underlying heart condition.
The HSA advises people who have bought or who are using any of the three products to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Immediate discontinuation of Huo Xue Qing Gan Jie Du Wan or Huang Niu Mu Shi Ni De Jiu Xing should be avoided without medical supervision as there could be serious withdrawal symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, confusion and low blood pressure.
However, people taking the slimming gel should stop immediately and consult a doctor if experiencing discomfort.