Slimming Max could cause stroke

People using the famous Chinese-made “Natural Slimming Max” to lose weight should stop doing so as the drug increases blood pressure and could cause stroke, the UAE ministry of health has warned.

In an urgent letter to hospitals and other health centres in the country, the ministry said the product includes Sibutramine, a substance that has just been withdrawn from the United States as it causes strokes.

The letter said the Chinese slimming drug, a popular product in the UAE, does not mention it contains that substance, which amounts to “fraud.”

“Natural Slimming Max is dangerous to people having heart problems…it increases blood pressure and cardiovascular activity and could cause stroke…all hospitals, clinics and medical centres are asked to stop using this product,” the ministry said in its circular, carried by Emirat Alyoum newspaper on Wednesday.

Sibutramine, usually in the form of the hydrochloride monohydrate salt, is an oral anorexiant. Until recently it was marketed and prescribed as an adjunct in the treatment of exogenous obesity along with diet and exercise.

It has been associated with increased cardiovascular events and strokes and has been withdrawn from the market in the US and other countries.

Natural Slimming Max contains plants which make people feel full and thus restrain the appetite.

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