Health Canada is warning consumers about multiple unauthorized drug products seized at two retail locations in Maple Ridge.
The products were seized from Maxximus Supplements at 22214 Dewdney Trunk Rd. and from Cutting Edge Nutrition, located at 20306 Dewdney Trunk Rd., as they have not been authorized by Health Canada to be sold in the country, and are illegal.
The products include injectable peptides, Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs), anabolic steroids and testosterone compounds, often used for bodybuilding, anti-aging, enhancing athletic performance or weight loss.
These products are labeled to contain prescription, controlled, or other drug ingredients, said Health Canada in their warning.
But, they have not been assessed for safety, efficacy, or quality.
The national health agency noted that authorized health products have an eight-digit Drug Identification Number, DIN, a Natural Product Number, NPN, or a Homeopathic Drug Number, DIN-HM.
Some of the products seized by Health Canada from these two stores have been labelled with falsified DIN’s.
The agency warned that the products may pose serious health risks. They may interact with other medications an individual might be taking; contain high-risk ingredients, additives, or contaminants that may or may not be listed on the label; or they may not have been manufactured or stored safely.
“Prescription drugs should only be used under the care of a healthcare professional because they are used to treat specific conditions and may cause serious side effects,” said Health Canada, noting that injectable, unauthorized drugs carry additional risks, including infections, allergic reactions, and other serious adverse outcomes due to contamination, improper handling, or unsafe administration.
“Do not use these products. Consult a licensed health care professional if you have used these products and have health concerns. Do not buy or use unauthorized drugs. Only buy prescription drugs from licensed pharmacies,” said the agency.
To dispose of the products, Health Canada is asking people to follow municipal or regional guidelines on disposing chemicals and other hazardous waste or return the product to a local pharmacy for proper disposal.
And to report any health product-related side effects or complaints to Health Canada.
For a full list of the seized products go to: https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/unauthorized-health-products-seized-two-stores-maple-ridge-bc-may-pose-serious-health.