Information Update - "Enhance" and "Natural-Power" test positive for sildenafil; removed from sale at Vaughan retailer

OTTAWA, April 16, 2015 /CNW/ - Further to a recent Advisory, Health Canada testing has found that two unauthorized health products, "Enhance" and "Natural-Power," contain undeclared sildenafil. Sildenafil is a prescription drug ingredient that may pose serious health risks, particularly for people with heart conditions.

The two products, promoted as natural sex-enhancement products, were removed from sale from Nature's Source, Unit #7, 2943 Major Mackenzie Drive, Vaughan, Ont., in February 2015.

Consumers who have purchased these products and used them should consult with their doctor if they have health concerns. Health Canada also reminds consumers to read the label of the health products they buy to verify that they have been assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness and quality. Health products that have been authorized for sale by Health Canada will have an eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), a Natural Product Number (NPN) or a Homeopathic Medicine Number (DIN-HM) on the label.

Products containing sildenafil should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare practitioner. Sildenafil should never be used by individuals taking any kind of nitrate drug (e.g. nitroglycerine) as it can cause potentially life-threatening low blood pressure. Individuals with heart problems including high blood pressure, a history of heart attack, stroke, abnormal heart beat or chest pain, are at higher risk of cardiovascular side effects. Other possible side effects of using sildenafil include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, dizziness, abnormal vision and hearing loss.

Should additional retailers or distributors be identified for these or other products that Health Canada has removed from sale at this location, Health Canada will take appropriate action and inform Canadians.

Consumers should also report any side effects to health products to Health Canada, and report unauthorized health products to Health Canada by calling toll-free to 1-800-267-9675, or completing an online complaint form.

Related links:

• Information Update - Unauthorized "Altimate Fat Burner Maximum Burn" being sold at a second Ontario retail location (March 2015)
• Advisory - Unauthorized health products that may pose health risks removed from sale by Health Canada (February 2015)

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SOURCE Health Canada

PDF available at: http://stream1.newswire.ca/media/2015/04/16/20150416_C8657_PDF_EN_14391.pdf

For further information: Media Inquiries: Health Canada, [phone]; Public Inquiries: [phone], 1-866 225-0709