123Herbals has issued a voluntary recall on its Vail-Bon Jie Yang Wan capsules due to a contamination issue.
The herbal supplement was found to contain dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine, which were undisclosed in the ingredients list.
Dexamethasone is a potent steroid commonly used in cancer therapy regimens, and chlorpheniramine is an anti-histamine that elicits a sedating effect on users.
The botanical-based supplements are designed to reduce eczema and skin itching in users.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that chronic dexamethasone intake can result in a range of side effects, including:
- Suppression of the adrenal glands, which can prevent the proper production of hormones in the body
- Psychiatric effects
- Increased infection risk
- Neuromuscular and skeletal side effects
- Cardiovascular effects
- Metabolic issues
- Weight gain
- Elevated blood glucose
- Impacts on the eye
Sustained use of chlorpheniramine can also results in a loss of co-ordination, drowsiness and seizures.
The recall has been targeted at the consumer level, but product distributors such as amazon.com are also being contacted to arrange the return of these products.
The FDA strongly recommends that anybody in possession of Vail-Bon Jie Yang Wan capsules should stop using them immediately.