Health Advisory: Arth-Forth: Unauthorized Herbal Product May Pose Serious Health Risks - Health Canada Advisory 2010-09-15

Advisory
2010-154
September 15, 2010
For immediate release

The issue:

"Arth-Forth" (pictured below), an unauthorized product promoted as an herbal supplement and distributed by Ka Wing Hong Ltd., was tested by Health Canada and found to contain a steroid prescription drug, dexamethasone, that was not declared on the product's labelling. Prescription drugs should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner as they may cause serious side effects.

Who is affected:

Consumers who may have bought or used "Arth-Forth," particularly people with gastrointestinal ulcers, Cushing's syndrome, severe heart problems, uncontrolled diabetes, uncontrolled high blood pressure, tuberculosis, severe systemic infections (viral, bacterial, fungal), certain eye disorders, and osteoporosis. Retailers who have this product in stock are also affected.