Health Hazard Warning
Do not to use White Peony Scar-repairing pills: Health Canada
February 1, 2006

Health Canada is warning consumers not to use the Chinese medicinal product White Peony Scar-repairing pills, manufactured in Hong Kong by White Peony Pharmaceuticals Limited, due to high levels of lead.

A batch has been recalled by the Hong Kong Department of Health. This product is not authorized for sale in Canada.

Adults taking this product at the dosage recommended on the label could receive 14 times the daily upper limit for lead recommended by Health Canada. In children, if the product is given at the same dosage as the one recommended for adults, the lead intake could be 32 to 133 times higher than the acceptable daily limit.

Lead poses a particular health risk because it may accumulate in vital organs. Signs of poisoning include dullness, restlessness, irritability, poor attention span, headaches, muscle tremor, hallucinations and loss of memory. Lead poisoning can cause weight loss, insomnia, dizziness, anemia, swelling of the brain and paralysis.

Children are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of lead on the brain. Brain and kidney damage due to lead poisoning has occurred in adults and children, and death from lead poisoning has been reported in children.

White Peony Scar-repairing pills have not been found in the Canadian marketplace. However, the product may have entered into Canada through personal importation or other means. Appropriate actions, including a Customs watch, have been taken to address potential importation.

There have been no reports to date in Canada of adverse events associated with this product.

Consumers currently using White Peony Scar-repairing pills should stop taking the product immediately. Current and former users who are concerned about their health should consult a health care professional for advice.