The Chinese medicine trade is reminded not to confuse the drug Natrii Sulfas with the chemical sodium nitrite. The warning comes after Department of Health investigations into a case of suspected Chinese medicine poisoning reported by the Hospital Authority.

The patient was given the chemical instead of the Chinese medicine of mineral origin known as Natrii Sulfas in the prescription. Its main chemical component is sodium sulfate.

Upon tracing the source, the erroneous substitution was found at the wholesale level. The patient has recovered and no further cases have been found.

The department contacted 20 retailers of the wholesaler and asked them stop using this batch of minerals. The wholesaler was also asked to recall the minerals.

Natrii Sulfas is used as a laxative, for clearing heat and decreasing oedema.

Consumption of highly purified sodium nitrite suppresses the normal oxygen carrying and releasing capacities of haemoglobin in the blood. The chief symptoms of poisoning include pallor, weakness, palpitation, dizziness and shortness of breath.

Practitioners are reminded to ensure the correct identification of Natrii Sulfas and sodium nitrite.

Any suspected Chinese medicine poisoning cases should be reported to the department as soon as possible to facilitate prompt investigation and follow up action. People should consult their practitioners and follow their advice before taking Chinese medicine.