Australia’s medicine regulation agency has issued a warning against the use of tablets marketed to treat erectile dysfunction, saying its use could pose “serious” health risks.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) says it has tested Ziyinzhuangyang tablets, which can be purchased online, and found that they contain the “undeclared” substance sildenafil.
Sildenafil, which is sold under the name Viagra, is a prescription-only medicine in Australia making the Ziyinzhuangyang tablets illegal.
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“Ziyinzhuangyang tablets pose a serious risk to your health and should not be taken,” the TGA said.
Sildenafil can interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs given to people with diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease.
The interaction between the two substances can potentially cause blood pressure levels to fall to dangerously low levels.
“Sildenafil, whether taken alone or in combination with other medication, can cause serious side effects,” the TGA said.
The tablets have not been assessed by the TGA, who have urged anyone using them to stop and take any leftovers they have to a pharmacy for disposal.
The TGA is working with the Australian Border Force (ABF) to help stop future shipments of the tablets from entering Australia.
“We will notify ABF to seize and destroy any of these products intercepted at the border,” it said.
Consumers have been told to exercise “extreme” caution when purchasing medicine from overseas websites.
“Always buy medicines from reputable sources and consult your healthcare provider or local registered pharmacy if you have any concerns,” the TGA said.