The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) says a ban on the sale and distribution of six herbal medicinal products issued some two years ago is still valid.

The herbal medicinal products hit by the ban include Rockman Capsules manufactured by RockCare Clinic Limited; Mars for men imported by Joe D. Ventures and Tinatett Be4 Be4 Herbal Capsules manufactured by Tinattet Herbal Manufacturing and Marketing Co. Ltd.

The rest are, Angel Natural Capsules, manufactured by Angel Herbal Products Ltd.; Adom Gentleman Power Capsules manufactured by Dependable Pharmacy Ltd.; and Laud P Capsules manufactured by Stephen Gyan Herbal Centre.

The FDA said recently that the products were registered as herbal medicinal products indicated for male vitality but post-market surveillance activities conducted by the Authority have revealed that the products have been adulterated with Vardenafil, a synthetic material used in the formulation of a prescription-only medicine used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

The adverse effects of Vardenafil may have serious health implications which include cerebrovascular haemorrhage (bleeding in the brain) which can lead to strokes; transient Ischaemic (heart) attack; palpitations and serious cardiovascular events including sudden cardiac death, according to the FDA.

It can also cause priapism (sustained erection for long periods which can lead to impotence) as well as problems with kidney function, and problem with sight and hearing.

The general public is therefore advised not to patronize the above listed herbal medicines.

Source: Myjoyonline.com