The Department of Health has ordered a recall of Great Wall Brand’s Ching Fei Yi Huo Pien, a Chinese medicine product meant to treat coughs and sore throat.
It was to found to contain trace amounts of an undeclared Western drug, namely, paracetamol – yes, the chemical that’s the main ingredient behind drugs like Tylenol and Panadol.
Guess the manufacturers didn’t have much faith in their Chinese herbs.
The offending drug
The government has “so far” received no reports of adverse effects related to the use of the Chinese medicine.
Incorrect use of paracetamol can lead to liver and kidney damage, according to a Department of Health spokesman.
Though we’re guessing they’re unlikely to receive any reports of adverse reactions at all on this occasion, it’s good to know they’re looking out for unlisted ingredients in medicine sold in Hong Kong!
Selling a drug that is not of the “nature, substance or quality” demanded by the purchaser is liable to a maximum fine of HKD10,000 and three months’ imprisonment.
