Public advisory

Unauthorized "21st Century DHEA" health product seized from Moose Jaw, SK, store is labelled to contain a controlled substance and may pose serious health risks

Starting date:
November 16, 2018
Type of communication:
Advisory
Subcategory:
Drugs
Source of recall:
Health Canada
Identification number:
RA-68314

Issue

Health Canada seized “21st Century DHEA” because it is labelled to contain dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a controlled substance that may pose serious health risks. “21st Century DHEA “ is an unauthorized health product promoted to provide “support for the immune system, mental well-being & energy levels.”

The product was seized from Alternate Root Organics (16 Athabasca Street West) in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

Products affected

21st Century DHEA capsules

What you should do

  • Stop using this product. Consult your health care professional if you have used this product and have health concerns.
  • Read the label of the products you buy to verify that they have been assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness and quality. Health products that have been authorized for sale by Health Canada will have an eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), a Homeopathic Medicine Number (DIN-HM) or a Natural Product Number (NPN) on the label.
  • Report any health product adverse events or complaints to Health Canada.

Who is affected

Consumers who have bought or used this product

Background

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a controlled substance that can cause higher-than-normal levels of female and male hormones in the body and could increase the risk of prostate, breast, ovarian and other hormone-sensitive cancers. Potential side effects include serious cardiovascular disease, changes in fertility and sperm production. DHEA should be avoided by individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clotting disorders, liver disease and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Media enquiries

Health Canada

(613) 957-2983

hc.media.sc@canada.ca

Public enquiries

(613) 957-2991

1-866 225-0709

What Health Canada is doing

Health Canada seized the unauthorized product. Health Canada will take additional action if further unauthorized products or suppliers are identified, including informing consumers as needed.

Images

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