The Therapeutic Goods Association (TGA) has released an alert to warn Australians that Meizi Evolution Botanical Slimming soft gel capsules and Best Slim capsules pose a serious health risk and should not be consumed. TGA investigations have revealed the products have been largely purchased online.

The place of manufacture of the products was never approved by the TGA and the products were not legitimately assessed for quality, safety or efficacy in accordance with Australian therapeutic goods legislation.

The TGA have tested the products and found that:

• they contain the undeclared prescription substance sibutramine- despite the product label claim that Meizi contains herbal ingredients and no medicines and that Best Slim is 100% Natural and contains no medicines.
• Sibutramine is a prescription-only medicine and was withdrawn in October 2010 after a study showed an increased risk of major cardiac events.
• the Best Slim product label states the product contents are pills, when in fact  they are soft gelatine capsules, green in colour.

The supply of both these capsules is illegal and the TGA have advised consumers to cease using them and to contact a health care practitioner if any concerns arising from the use of these products arise. Any remaining capsules should be taken to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

The TGA is working with Australian Customs and Border Protection Services(Customs) to stop shipments of the products from entering Australia.

Australians are being advised by the Australian government to exercise extreme caution when purchasing therapeutic products or medicines from unknown overseas internet sites, as the products may contain undisclosed and potentially harmful ingredients and may not meet Australian standards.

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