The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) alerted the public of a case of an infant being hospitalised after using Star Cream, which was found to contain a potent steroid.
Contrary to the brand’s claims that it contained “all-natural herbal extracts” and “no steroids,” HSA’s analysis revealed otherwise. The use of Star Cream led to the child suffering from Cushing’s syndrome, a serious medical condition caused by prolonged use of steroids.
The cream was applied to the four-month-old infant for a diaper rash since he was two weeks old.
“He presented with persistent vomiting, abnormal eye alignment (convergent squint) and a bulging fontanelle (the soft spot on top of a baby’s skull), consistent with signs of increased brain pressure,” said HSA.
The child has been discharged and recovering at home, although he will require long-term monitoring of the side effects of steroid toxicity.
HSA issued an advisory to parents and consumers to seek medical assistance if family members are using Star Cream.
“Sudden stopping of the cream without medical supervision may result in worsening of underlying skin conditions and other serious withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, confusion and low blood pressure,” said HSA.
Read the full advisory here.
The product was marketed as a homemade cream containing natural herbal extracts with antibacterial and antifungal properties. It was also said to be “suitable for all skin types,” even for skin conditions like acne, eczema, mosquito bite, psoriasis and skin ringworms.
The product was sold on e-commerce platforms like Carousell and Shopee, as well as on Facebook. HSA noted it has worked with the platform administrators to remove listings of the product.
Sellers and suppliers of Star Cream are also advised to stop operations immediately.
“HSA will not hesitate to take stern enforcement actions against anyone who sells and/or supplies products found to be adulterated with potent medicinal ingredients. Sellers and suppliers who are selling Star Cream are liable to be prosecuted and, if convicted, may be imprisoned for up to two years and/or fined up to S$10,000,” added HSA.
Members of the public who have any information on the sale and supply of Star Cream may contact HSA’s Enforcement Branch at Tel: 6866-3485 during office hours (Monday to Friday) or email: hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg. /TISG
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