Israeli Health Ministry Warns of Dangerous Weight Loss Supplement
Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba
An Israeli man was hospitalized after taking the weight loss supplement G-Slim, which was found to contain high levels of the banned drug sibutramine. The Ministry of Health has warned the public against the product and advised purchasing health items only from authorized sources.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israeli man hospitalized after taking G-Slim weight loss supplement.
- G-Slim contains banned sibutramine, a drug linked to heart risks.
- Ministry of Health warns public against purchasing G-Slim.
- Sibutramine was withdrawn globally in 2010 due to cardiovascular risks.
- Health Ministry advises buying supplements only from pharmacies and official stores.
An Israeli man was recently hospitalized with chest pain and a rapid heartbeat after taking a weight loss supplement called G-Slim. The Ministry of Health issued a warning on September 15th, cautioning citizens against purchasing and consuming the product, according to Ynet.
Laboratory tests revealed that G-Slim contains sibutramine, a pharmaceutical substance banned for sale in Israel and many other countries. Each capsule contained 53.8 mg of sibutramine, more than triple the amount found in a previously banned similar product. Sibutramine was formerly prescribed for weight loss under brand names like Meridia and Reductil, suppressing appetite by affecting serotonin and norepinephrine levels. It was withdrawn from markets in the US and Europe in 2010 following a study of nearly 10,000 participants that indicated a 16% increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke, compared to a placebo.
Following its ban, sibutramine began to be illegally added to weight loss products sold online as "natural" supplements, often without its presence being declared on the packaging. The Ministry of Health stated that G-Slim was sold in this manner. The consumption of sibutramine without medical supervision can lead to elevated blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, psychological disorders, heart attack, and stroke, posing a life-threatening risk in some cases. The high dosage found in G-Slim further amplifies these dangers.
The Ministry of Health urges Israelis to purchase medications, dietary supplements, and other health products exclusively from pharmacies and authorized retail chains. They advise against products sold through social media, messaging groups, and unknown websites. Individuals seeking to lose weight or start taking supplements are encouraged to consult a qualified dietitian, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in physical activity. Those who find G-Slim for sale or experience adverse effects after taking the supplement are instructed to contact the Ministry of Health's information center at *5400.
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