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Rapid High-throughput Species Identification of Botanical Material Using Direct Analysis in Real Time High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
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[Dangerous herbal preparations being sold by web shops]
Sonja van de Koppel1,2, Martin Kooijman3, Dana Ohana4
1Bijwerkingencentrum Lareb, 's Hertogenbosch.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|May 2, 2022
Summary
Consumers should be cautious of herbal products bought online, as they may contain undeclared, illegal pharmaceutical drugs. Analysis of Montalin® revealed hidden paracetamol and meloxicam, leading to product recalls.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacovigilance
- Herbal Medicine Safety
- Regulatory Affairs
Background:
- The internet offers numerous herbal preparations, some containing undisclosed active pharmaceutical ingredients.
- Undeclared substances in herbal products pose significant health risks due to potential interactions and adverse effects.
Observation:
- The Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb documented four adverse event reports linked to the Indonesian herbal product Montalin® in January 2021.
- Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of effective quantities of paracetamol and meloxicam in Montalin® samples.
- These pharmaceutical substances were illegally added and not declared on the product's packaging.
Findings:
- Montalin® contained undeclared paracetamol and meloxicam, indicating illegal adulteration.
- The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) mandated the cessation of sales by five online retailers of Montalin®.
Implications:
- Consumers purchasing herbal products online face risks from unlisted, potent pharmaceutical compounds.
- Increased vigilance and regulatory oversight are crucial for ensuring the safety of herbal preparations available through e-commerce channels.
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