Locally sold “herbal” product found containing potent steroids; two hospitalised, HSA issues urgent warning

SINGAPORE: A herbal product marketed as a natural remedy has been found to contain potent prescription-only medicines, prompting an urgent safety alert from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) after two individuals were hospitalised following suspected use.

In a statement issued today, HSA said laboratory tests detected two powerful steroids, dexamethasone and prednisolone, along with the anti-inflammatory painkiller diclofenac in the product known as HW Beauty Serbuk Campuran Kurma, Madu & Limau Kasturi. The product had been promoted on social media, local e-commerce sites, and in retail shops as a “traditional herbal supplement” capable of relieving joint pain, gout, and other ailments.

HSA said the public had reported unusually fast pain relief after consuming the product and noted similarities to a drug-laced product flagged by the authorities in April. Over the past few weeks, several adverse reaction reports were received, including cases of severe acute kidney injury and Cushing’s syndrome, commonly referred to as “moon face.”

Two people who were suspected to have taken the product were hospitalised earlier this month. Both have since been discharged.

According to HSA, dexamethasone and prednisolone are potent steroids that must only be used under strict medical supervision to treat inflammatory conditions. Prolonged unsupervised use can lead to serious complications, including high blood sugar that may result in diabetes, high blood pressure, cataracts, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of infections. Consumers who stop using such steroids abruptly may also experience withdrawal symptoms or adrenal insufficiency, which can cause fatigue, weakness, muscle and joint pain, low blood pressure, seizures, or even shock.

Diclofenac, a strong anti-inflammatory and painkiller, similarly requires medical oversight, especially for patients with heart or kidney disease. Long-term use may result in stomach bleeding, worsen kidney function, or raise the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes.

Despite these dangers, the product was marketed as “steroid-free,” “authentic,” and “high-quality,” potentially misleading consumers into believing it was safe.

HSA said it has worked with a major local e-commerce platform to remove listings for the product and has instructed the platform not to relist it.

The authority is urging anyone who has consumed the product to seek medical attention immediately. All sellers and suppliers have been ordered to stop sales at once. Those found selling or supplying products containing undeclared potent ingredients face penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of $10,000, or both.