HSA Warns Against Three Illegal Health Products After Boy Develops Serious Side Effects from ‘Steroid-Free’ Eczema Cream

Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) has issued a public warning against three health products found to contain banned or undeclared medicinal ingredients, after they were linked to serious health complications, including a case involving a 12-year-old boy.

The agency said the products had been marketed as herbal remedies or dietary supplements despite containing potent pharmaceutical substances that were not declared on their labels. Several of the items had also been sold through popular online marketplaces and social media platforms.

One of the most concerning cases involved a young boy who developed significant weight gain and stretch marks after using a cream advertised as containing “zero steroids” for the treatment of eczema.

Boy Gains 6kg After Using Mislabelled Eczema Cream

According to HSA, the boy applied a product known as B-Lian-S Herbal Cream for around two months after it was purchased by his mother from a Facebook seller based in Malaysia.

The cream was promoted as a natural remedy for eczema, psoriasis and itchy skin, claiming to be made from natural extracts without steroids. However, laboratory tests conducted by HSA found that it contained a potent corticosteroid as well as an antifungal medication.

The prolonged exposure resulted in the boy gaining approximately 6kg and developing noticeable stretch marks, highlighting the dangers of using unregulated products purchased online.

Second Herbal Product Caused Steroid-Related Symptoms

HSA also identified another product, labelled 血压高中风青草药草, which had been marketed as a traditional herbal remedy for improving blood circulation and treating chronic conditions such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes, back pain and limb stiffness.

A woman in her 60s reportedly consumed the product for about 10 days after obtaining it in Bentong, Malaysia. She later experienced symptoms associated with Cushing’s syndrome, including the development of a rounded “moon face”, abnormal fat accumulation around the upper back and persistent lethargy after discontinuing the product.

Medical investigations later confirmed that the herbal preparation contained a potent steroid. The woman has since recovered after receiving hospital treatment and stopping the medication under medical supervision.

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Banned Substance

The third product highlighted by HSA was C-Nine Dietary Supplement Product, marketed as a dietary supplement containing ingredients such as chia powder and chilli pepper powder.

A consumer who took the supplement reported experiencing heart palpitations, nausea, excessive thirst and loss of appetite.

Testing revealed that the product contained sibutramine, a banned weight-loss drug that has been prohibited in Singapore because of its association with serious cardiovascular risks. HSA also detected an undeclared laxative in the supplement.

Products Sold on Popular Online Platforms

The authority said the three products had been available through online platforms including Shopee, TikTok Shop, Lazada, Carousell and Facebook.

HSA has worked with the respective platforms to remove product listings and disable online stores selling the affected items. However, consumers are reminded to remain vigilant, especially when purchasing products claiming to be “natural”, “herbal” or “steroid-free”.

The agency advised anyone currently taking C-Nine Dietary Supplement Product to stop using it immediately and seek medical advice if they experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about their health.

HSA Advises Consumers Not to Stop Steroid Products Abruptly

For individuals using B-Lian-S Herbal Cream or 血压高中风青草药草, HSA stressed that they should consult a doctor before discontinuing the products.

Abruptly stopping products containing potent steroids after prolonged use may trigger steroid withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, weakness and dangerously low blood pressure. The risk is especially significant for children, who are generally more susceptible to steroid-related side effects.

HSA also reminded retailers and suppliers that selling products adulterated with banned or potent medicinal ingredients is an offence. Those found guilty may face imprisonment of up to two years, a fine of up to S$10,000, or both.

Members of the public who have information about the sale of these illegal health products are encouraged to report the matter to HSA for investigation.