Major Raid In Pathom Thani Results In Weight Loss Pills Being Seized

Police in conjunction with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have seized illicit weight loss pills thought to be worth in the region of five million baht.

The pills which were being sold online, are known as "Paya Slim Plus" by a company in the Pathum Thani Province, north of Bangkok.

The raid was initiated following numerous complaints from the public with regards to the product.

The company owner, Suthee Ard-dee, 30, is likely to be charged with selling counterfeit goods and selling products with unauthorised labels.

Deputy Chief Prapon Angtrakul of the FDA said the pills contained Sibutramine, which helps suppress appetite. Sibutramine was taken off the Thai Drug Registration System in 2010 and was classified as potentially dangerous by the FDA.

Prapon suggested that people wishing to use medication or supplements, for weight loss, should in the first instance, consult the doctor or pharmacists, so they are aware of possible side effects. Manufacturers were reminded that they must operate within the law.

Being obese or overweight can lead to people becoming desperate and vulnerable and of course their are always scrupulous people willing to step in and take advantage of them. If you believe you need to lose weight the advice is always speak to a doctor first.

Sibutramine (usually in the form of the hydrochloride monohydrate salt) is an oral anorexiant. It is used for weight loss of obese people along with diet and exorcise.

It is thought to cause increased cardiovascular events and strokes and has been withdrawn from the market in several countries, including Australia, Canada, most of the European Union and the Philippines.

Some countries permit the use of the drug under controlled circumstances with patients being monitored for side effects.

Source: The Nation

Content: TPVS