HSA Lists Potent Ingredients Banned Overseas Due to Side Effects

On May 10, 2024, the Health Science Authority (HSA) published list of potent ingredients that are not allowed in cosmetics and medicinal products in overseas because of its side effects.

Potent ingredients that are banned because of their side effects are listed below:
1) Betamethasone- High blood pressure, cataracts, an increased risk of infections, and Cushing’s syndrome
2) Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-  Serious cardiovascular disease, changes in fertility and sperm production, hair loss, voice deepening, insulin resistance, changes in menstrual pattern, liver dysfunction, abdominal pain, and high blood pressure.
3) Diclofenac- Heart attacks and strokes, as well as serious gastric bleeding
4) Fluoxetine- Headaches, insomnia, palpitations and dizziness
5) Levodopa- Low blood pressure, irregular heart rate and breathing abnormalities.
6) Mercury- Rash, skin discolouration, blotching, toxic effects to the kidneys, digestive and nervous system, organ damage.
7) Methocarbamol- anaphylaxis, liver problems, confusion and seizures
8) Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors- Strokes, heart attacks, decreased or loss of vision and hearing and priapism (painful and exceedingly long erections).
9) Sibutramine /Benzyl sibutramine- High blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, hallucinations and mood swings.
10) Yohimbe/Yohimbine- insomnia, anxiety, palpitations (sensation of heart pounding, racing or skipped beats), sweating and blurred vision.