May 07, 2013

The Department of Health ordered licensed wholesaler of proprietary Chinese medicine to recall a batch of pellets containing excessive mercury today.
 
A sample of Jian Ti Wu Bu Wan (registration number: HKP-08760, batch number: 1033946, imported by Beijing Tong Ren Tang Hong Kong Medicine Management, was found to contain five times the permitted limit of mercury by the Government Laboratory.
 
No adverse events related to consumption of the medicine have been received so far. The department is closely monitoring the recall and investigation will continue.
 
The department said acute mercury poisoning can cause inflammation of the mouth, and prolonged exposure to mercury can damage the neurological system and kidneys.
 
It urged the public to stop using the above product immediately. Those who have used it should seek medical advice.
 
The public can call the company's hotline 2587 8788 for enquiries.