Medicines sold as natural are actually for controlled use, study shows

Synthetic compounds such as sibutramine, bupropion and fluoxetine have been found in capsules that promise aid in weight loss.

Medicines sold on the internet as natural actually contain substances for controlled use and, therefore, could only be sold with a withholding on the revenue. Report shown by National newspaperof TV Globo, Thursday 27, revealed that a Unicamp study found controlled-use substances mixed with products sold online under the label of herbs, which are natural medicines, based on medicinal plants.

“Mainly three substances were detected: sibutramine, which is a compound that causes a decrease in appetite, and two antidepressants: bupropion and fluoxetine,” he told National newspaper the coordinator of Ciatox – Toxicological Information and Assistance Center of Unicamp, José Luiz da Costa, in reference to a capsule sold online that promises to help you lose weight.

Sibutramine, bupropion, and fluoxetine are not natural compounds, but synthetic ones. Bupropion, for example, is prescribed to those who want to quit smoking. Fluoxetine is recommended for those who suffer from depression. Sibutramine helps with weight loss, but it must be used in the correct doses and combined with diet and exercise.

Also in an interview with National newspaperthe president of the Brazilian Association of Phytotherapy warned that only health professionals can prescribe a medicine, even if it is natural. “Just because it is natural does not mean that it is not harmful. This is important to emphasize. The combinations – sometimes the patient uses a drug -, what he can use in terms of phytotherapy, all this must be evaluated,” said Maria Angélica Fiut.

Herbal medicines are subject to the rules and supervision of the National Agency for Health Surveillance (Anvisa). Products can be industrialized or made to order, in compounding pharmacies.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.