Dubai: The Ministry of Health has warned the public about fraudulent sexual enhancement drugs promoted and sold on social media platforms that contain substances used to treat erectile dysfunction-related issues.
Dr Ameen Hussain Al Ameri, Assistant Undersecretary for Medical Practices and Licensing at the Ministry of Health, advises the public to seek professional help and buy products from pharmacies rather than those sold on the internet. He added that a large segment of society has become interested in herbal medicines, food supplements and sexual enhancement drugs sold online. However, the ministry will continue to warn people about their dangers.
Al Ameri said that the ministry will name the products and warn the public about the side effects of these drugs since they could lead to death. The ministry has already started lab testing one of the products, known as ‘super hard power tablets’, used to treat erectile dysfunction.
So far, the lab tests have indicated that the drug contains two substances, sildenafil and tadalafil, which could lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure for those suffering from heart conditions who are already consuming medication with nitrate. Al Ameri clarified that the mixture can result in an individual’s death.
He also stated some types of honey, sold in well-packaged containers, are sold as sexual enhancement products. Lab tests have proven that they are fake, and also contain sildenafil and tadalafil which are used in sexual enhancement drugs, such as Viagra, solely prescribed by doctors.
Al Ameri explained that many people try these new products thinking that they are safer when in reality they could have a more dangerous toll on one’s health. He also warned the public from using these products, especially the elderly, without consulting a doctor first.
Al Ameri added that people should always consult a licensed doctor and stay away from fraudulent websites or products circulating on social media. He also asked the public to report suspicious advertisements for drugs by calling the ministry’s call centre on 80011111.
