Dangerous erectile stimulants obtained via the Internet
Bern, 06.09.2013 - New analysis by Swissmedic has resulted in new findings: some erectile stimulants obtained via the Internet are intentionally and massively overdosed and thus dangerous. What is more, a painkiller is more and more frequently being added to these products, but is not declared among the ingredients.
This year, in its own laboratory, Swissmedic has analysed around 100 erectile stimulants that were seized by the customs authorities. Around three-quarters of them contained a false active pharmaceutical ingredient, or the active pharmaceutical ingredient declared was present in a dose that was too low or too high.
A new aspect is that several products declared – and contained – a multiple overdose of the active pharmaceutical ingredient. From a medical point of view this is a cause of extreme concern, because an overdose does not result in an improvement of the erectile function but simply leads to a higher occurrence of side effects such as cardiovascular problems.
One product obtained by a Swiss tourist at a street market in Bangkok was declared as containing 500 mg Tadalafil: 25 times the maximum authorised dose. What it actually contained was Sildenafil, which is another erectile stimulant, in the normal dosage.
Painkillers
Another worrying discovery was the undeclared addition of Diclofenac, which is an anti-inflammatory painkiller. If a patient is already taking such a product (for example to treat arthrosis), this leads to cumulation that can constitute a major health risk.
Taking such an illegal product regularly can moreover lead to dyspeptic disorders that can be as severe as gastrointestinal bleeding, and whose cause cannot be identified because the painkiller has been added without being declared. Swissmedic identified the presence of Diclofenac in five samples – in varying doses – in a product named "Nizagara" and in three other products.
Swissmedic has informed the authorities of other countries of these new analysis results, meaning that these dangerous products can be withdrawn from circulation not only in Switzerland but on an international level, thus protecting patients against their adverse effects.
Swissmedic issues a strong warning to the population regarding the purchase and use of medicinal products via the Internet.
Address for enquiries
For further information:
Swissmedic,
Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products
Daniel Lüthi, Head of Press Relations
Tel. 031/ 322 02 76
Publisher
Swiss Agency for Therapeutic Products
http://www.swissmedic.ch/?lang=2
