A public health alert has been issued by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) following the discovery of a banned weight loss drug in a coffee product widely available on local e-commerce platforms.
V-SHOU Premium Coffee has been found to contain sibutramine, a substance prohibited in Singapore since 2010 due to its severe health risks.
The Banned Weight Loss Substance
Credit: SFA
Sibutramine has been linked to a heightened risk of heart attack and stroke. Furthermore, consumers may experience a range of debilitating side effects, including heart problems, severe neurological disorders such as psychosis and hallucinations, and even seizures.
Touted as a weight-loss solution, V-SHOU Premium Coffee makes a series of unsubstantiated claims, promising accelerated fat burning, boosted metabolism, rapid weight loss, digestive relief, and appetite control.
While the product lists white kidney bean extract and hoodia gordonii – often promoted as appetite suppressants – as ingredients, the presence of the undisclosed and dangerous sibutramine poses a significant threat to consumer health.
The SFA has emphasised the importance of consumer vigilance, urging the public to avoid purchasing or consuming V-SHOU Premium Coffee. The product’s origin remains unknown, underscoring the potential dangers of unregulated products sold online.
Consumers who know about the sale of V-SHOU Premium Coffee can report it to the SFA through their website.
Slimming Products Banned By HSA
Credit: HSA
In 2023, the Health Science Authority (HSA) received feedback from the public regarding the sale of three weight loss products: HONEY Q Dietary Supplement Product, SLIME 7D ADVANCE Slimming Pill, and FINOs.
One consumer reported experiencing vomiting and a headache after consuming FINOs.
All three products were marketed as “herbal and natural” and were available for sale on popular local e-commerce and social media platforms like Lazada, Qoo10, Shopee, and eBay. SLIME 7D ADVANCE Slimming Pill, in particular, claimed to be free from any banned substances.
Contrary to these claims, the HSA conducted tests and identified the presence of potent medicinal ingredients, including sibutramine, benzyl sibutramine, fluoxetine, and orlistat in the products.
Fluoxetine is a prescription-only medicine that should only be used under medical supervision, while orlistat is a pharmacy-only medicine that requires supervision from a pharmacist or doctor.
Related read: HSA warns against two slimming products and tadalafil medication disguised as candy
What Are the Next Steps?
The SFA has advised consumers not to drink V-SHOU Premium Coffee. Those who have already consumed it should consult a doctor if they experience any health issues.
The agency has vowed to take strong action against anyone selling or distributing unsafe food products contaminated with illegal or harmful ingredients.
Those found guilty of such offences could face a fine of up to S$5,000 or a maximum of three months in prison, or both, for a first conviction. Repeat offenders may be fined up to S$10,000.
HSA also advises that there is no quick or easy solution for weight loss and emphasises the importance of a balanced diet and proper exercise for weight management. If assistance is needed, individuals should consult their doctor or a dietitian.
The authority also cautions consumers to be cautious of products that promise miraculous recovery from chronic medical conditions or claim to be “100% all-natural” with no side effects. Such products may contain undisclosed ingredients that can be harmful to health.
HSA advises exercising caution when purchasing products from unknown or unfamiliar online sources, as the manufacturing and potential adulteration of these products cannot be guaranteed. It is recommended to buy from reputable pharmacies or retailers with a presence in Singapore.
