Health ministry to crack down on ads for unregistered ‘energy stick’ nasal inhalers
Published on: Thursday, February 08, 2024
By: FMT
The ‘energy stick’ device, priced as low as RM2.50, is reported to contain harmful chemicals that could cause infections and respiratory damage. (File pic)
PETALING JAYA: The health ministry will take appropriate enforcement action, including taking down advertisements for the sale of “energy stick” nasal inhalers.
“Initial screening of e-commerce platforms such as Shopee and Lazada found advertisements and sales of the product by local and foreign sellers,” health director-general Radzi Abu Hassan said in a statement.
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Radzi also said preliminary investigations found that the product is not registered with the Drug Control Authority in accordance with the Sale of Drugs Act 1952.
“Action will be taken against sellers found to be selling these products,” he said.
Radzi added that the sale of unregistered health products violates Regulation 7(1)(a) of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984.
He said those found guilty of a first offence may face fines of up to RM25,000, imprisonment of up to three years, or both. Those who commit subsequent offences may be fined up to RM50,000 or imprisoned for up to five years.
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Radzi also advised consumers to check for a hologram sticker and product registration number before purchasing health products.
He further encouraged the public to report the sale of unregistered products to the pharmacy enforcement division to allow appropriate action to be taken.
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On Sunday, health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said action would be taken following reports of “energy stick” advertisements on the market targeting minors.
Sold with the tagline “snort first, then go to school”, Public Health Malaysia claimed the promotion of the device showed that it was aimed at minors.
The device, which can be purchased for as little as RM2.50, is said to contain chemicals that could seriously affect the user’s health, including causing infections and damaging the respiratory system.
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