Health Canada is cautioning consumers about the serious health risks linked to unauthorized drugs sold online that claim to combat signs of aging or boost athletic performance.
The federal health agency confiscated unauthorized injectable peptide drugs typically used as anti-aging treatments or by bodybuilders and athletes seeking enhanced performance, according to an Aug. 1 advisory.
The drugs were being sold via the Canada Peptide website, which has since been removed and listed as “under maintenance” as of Aug. 4.
Although injectable peptides are classified as prescription medications, Health Canada did not approve any of the products that were confiscated or marketed on the company’s website, the department said, noting that all sales of the drugs were illegal.
“Health Canada has not authorized any of the products that were seized or sold on the company’s website, which means that they have not been assessed for safety, efficacy, and quality,” the advisory said. “Prescription drugs should only be used under the care of a healthcare professional because they are used to treat specific conditions and may cause serious side effects.”
Use of unauthorized injectable peptide drugs may lead to infections, allergic reactions, and potential interactions with other medications that an individual may be taking, Health Canada said.
The drugs could also contain high-risk ingredients, additives, or contaminants that may or may not be listed on the label and may not have been manufactured or stored safely, the advisory said.
“Should additional safety concerns be identified, Health Canada will take appropriate action to protect public health and safety, including communicating updates, if needed,” the agency said, noting that consumers should only buy prescription drugs from licensed pharmacies.
The notice advises any individuals who have used an unauthorized injectable drug to consult a health-care professional if they have any concerns and report any health product-related side effects or complaints to Health Canada.
The advisory also directs anyone who purchased the drugs to either return the product to a pharmacy or follow municipal or regional guidelines for proper disposal.
Customers can verify product labels to ensure a drug has received authorization for sale from Health Canada by locating the eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), Natural Product Number (NPN), or Homeopathic Drug Number (DIN-HM), the agency said. Shoppers can also check if products have been authorized by searching Health Canada’s Drug Product Database and Licensed Natural Health Product Database.
In a previous advisory issued last month, the agency issued a warning about the use of unauthorized hormonal supplements known as Natrol DHEA Mood & Stress, noting that the mood and stress management medication can cause serious health issues.
The pills, which contained a controlled substance known as Dehydroepiandrosterone, had not received approval for use in Canada from the government due to the fact that they had not been “evaluated for safety, effectiveness, and quality.”
The tablets were being sold by Alberta wholesale merchandise company Retail Revolt but the company relinquished its stock to Health Canada, after being contacted by the federal agency.
DHEA can cause elevated levels of both male and female hormones in the body, which can increase the likelihood of fertility problems, acne, and unusual hair growth and also increase the risk for severe health issues, including prostate and breast cancer.
