NZMA supports recall of traditional medicines

The New Zealand Medical Association supports the Ministry of Health’s recall of traditional Chinese herbal medicines containing scheduled medicines. The Ministry announced today that importers and distributors of 11 products have been asked to cease sale and distribution.

“It is extremely concerning that traditional medicines are being sold which contain substances that can cause serious illness and may be fatal,” said NZMA Chairman Dr John Adams.

“The Medicines Act is designed to protect the health of the public. Therefore it is vital that only scheduled medicines with approval under the Act are available for distribution here.”

Dr Adams said people who had taken the Chinese medicines should follow the advice of the Ministry of Health, stop taking the product and seek medical advice. Severe illness has resulted overseas for some people who have taken these products.

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