Dangerous drug: Consumers should avoid slimming product Healthily.Slim which contains an undeclared drug ingredient that can cause serious side effects.

The Department of Health urges consumers to avoid slimming product Healthily.Slim which contains an undeclared drug ingredient that can cause serious side effects.

Sibutramine was found in samples of the product taken during strengthened market surveillance recently.

The department today seized 1,061 bottles of the product from retailers and distributors who have been ordered to recall the products.

Sibutramine is a western drug ingredient used as an appetite suppressant for slimming under close medical supervision. Side effects include increased blood pressure and heart rate, psychosis and possibly convulsions. People with heart problems should not take it.

Under the Pharmacy & Poisons Ordinance products containing sibutramine must be registered before sale and can only be sold on a doctor's prescription and under a pharmacist's supervision.