AI Summary
- Malaysia’s Health Ministry (MOH) has banned the sale and distribution of the Thai herbal product ‘Hong Thai Inhaler’ due to lack of registration with the Drug Control Authority (DCA).
- The product failed microbial contamination tests, showing harmful bacteria and elevated yeast and mould counts in a batch produced in December 2024.
- MOH is actively removing product listings from e-commerce platforms and blocking links from sellers to prevent illegal sales.
- Individuals caught selling or possessing unregistered medicines may face fines up to RM25,000 or imprisonment, while companies can be fined up to RM50,000.
- The public is urged to stop using the product immediately, check for official registration before buying medicines, and seek medical help if they experience side effects.
A popular herbal product from Thailand, known as the ‘Hong Thai Inhaler’, has been banned by Malaysia’s Health Ministry (MOH).
According to reports, the product is not registered with Malaysia’s Drug Control Authority (DCA), making its sale and distribution illegal in the country.
For public awareness, the sale and possession of unregistered medicines is an offence under Regulation 7(1)(a) of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984, and is punishable under Section 12 of the Sale of Drugs Act 1952. Individuals found guilty may face a fine of up to RM25,000 or imprisonment of up to three years, while companies may be fined up to RM50,000.
Image Credit: Sinar Daily
Previously, it was reported that a batch of Hong Thai Herbal’s Formula 2 failed to meet safety standards in microbial contamination tests. The batch showed elevated microbial counts, combined yeast and mould counts, and the presence of Clostridium spp. bacteria.
The affected batch, believed to consist of approximately 200,000 units, carried the production number 000332, manufactured on December 9, 2024, with an expiry date of December 8, 2027.
In response, MOH has taken immediate action, including:
- Screening and removing product listings from e-commerce platforms
- Blocking links from involved sellers
- Continuing monitoring and enforcement against those still marketing the product
According to MOH, the Pharmacy Enforcement Division (BPF) has detected 335 links to advertisements and sales of the product by both local and international sellers. Complaints have been submitted to the respective platforms to take down the listings.
The public is strongly advised to stop using the product immediately and seek medical attention if they experience any side effects or unusual symptoms.
Additionally, consumers are reminded to verify the registration status of any medicinal product by checking for the security hologram sticker and registration number (MAL) before making a purchase. Verification can also be done via the official website under the ‘Product Search’ section.
Featured Image Credit: X, The Straits Times
