Health Canada is warning consumers not to use Herblex Once More, an unauthorized product promoted to enhance male sexual performance.Health Canada is warning consumers not to use Herblex Once More, an unauthorized product promoted to enhance male sexual performance. (Health Canada)

Health Canada is warning people not to use Herblex Once More, an unauthorized product promoted to enhance male sexual performance, because it may pose serious health risks.

The product was found to contain sildenafil — a prescription medication also sold under the brand name Viagra — that is not indicated on the label and may cause serious side-effects in some people.

The product was also contaminated with high levels of mould and bacteria, Health Canada said in a release.

When people with heart disease take erectile dysfunction drugs like sildenafil, serious cardiovascular side-effects may result, including sudden cardiac death, heart attack, stroke, low blood pressure, chest pain and abnormal heartbeat.

Other possible side-effects include vision loss, seizure, sudden decrease or loss of hearing, dizziness, prolonged erection, headache, flushing, nasal congestion, indigestion and abdominal pain.

People taking nitrate drugs such as nitroglycerine should also not take sildenafil because of the risk of developing life-threatening low blood pressure, Health Canada advised.

B.C. company involved

Herblex Once More is distributed by Herblex Canada of Surrey, B.C.

Health Canada said it has received no reports of adverse reactions, but anyone who has used Once More and is concerned about their health should consult a health care practitioner.

The department also advised people not to use any other unauthorized products promoted for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Drugs and natural health products that are authorized for sale in Canada include an eight-digit number on the label.

Canadians may report any adverse reactions associated with the use of health products online, by phone, fax or mail.