Be Smart on Slimming Products
Be Smart on Slimming Products |
Health message on overweight problem and slimming productsOverweight and ObesityOverweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health. Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the methods for measuring overweight and obesity. It is calculated by dividing the body weight (in kg) by the square of height (in m): kg/m². For assessing obesity in adult populations, according to the World Health Organization Asian Standard, BMI 23.0 - below 25.0 kg/m² is classified as overweight and BMI 25.0 kg/m² or above is classified as obese. Weight control should be achieved through good diet and appropriate exercise. People should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control. Medical Treatment
In Hong Kong, medicines currently registered for the treatment of obesity include liraglutide, naltrexone/bupropion, orlistat, phentermine, semaglutide and tirzepatide. In general, these medicines are intended to be used as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity in obese patients who meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria vary by product and must be strictly adhered to in accordance with the product label-specified criteria.
For more information on anti-obesity drugs, please refer to “Anti-obesity Drugs” on the Drug Office website. According to the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance, Chapter 138, Laws of Hong Kong, all pharmaceutical products must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong (the “Board”) before they can be sold or distributed in Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, almost all of the registered anti-obesity drugs mentioned above are classified as prescription-only medicines, which can be sold only on a doctor's prescription and dispensed under the supervision of a pharmacist. In the past, another medicine, namely sibutramine, was also registered for the treatment of obesity. However, due to its cardiovascular side effects, the Registration Committee under the Board has decided to deregister all sibutramine products with effect from 2 November 2010. Side effects of sibutramine include increased blood pressure and heart rate, psychosis and possibly convulsion. Advice to the Public
The Department of Health occasionally receives reports of individuals experiencing adverse health effects after consuming slimming products containing undeclared western drug ingredients, particularly those purchased while traveling abroad. In addition, some slimming products available for sale on the internet have also been found to contain undeclared western drug ingredients. For further information, please refer to the “Slimming Products with Undeclared Western Drug Ingredients” and “Advice on the Use of Medicines or Health Products while Travelling Abroad” on the Drug Office website. Products that have not been registered under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance may pose potential health risks, as their safety, efficacy and quality have not been evaluated. Members of the public are therefore strongly advised not to purchase or consume products of unknown composition or origin. Individuals who are concerned about overweight or obesity issues should seek advice from healthcare professionals and refrain from using any unregistered product. Drug Office |
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