A Winnipeg woman is warning others about the potential dangers of natural supplements after discovering that a product she was taking contained a hidden painkiller drug.
The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, had been taking a natural supplement for joint pain for several months. However, she began experiencing severe side effects, including dizziness and nausea.
After consulting with her doctor, she discovered that the supplement contained a hidden ingredient – diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat pain and inflammation.
The woman was shocked and concerned about the potential harm this hidden drug could have caused her. “It could be catastrophic,” she said in an interview with CTV News. “I had no idea I was taking a prescription drug.”
According to Health Canada, diclofenac can cause serious side effects, including stomach ulcers, bleeding, and liver and kidney damage. It is only available with a prescription and should not be taken without medical supervision.
The woman is now urging others to be cautious when taking natural supplements and to always consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new products to their routine.
Health Canada has also issued a warning about the potential risks of natural supplements containing hidden drugs. They advise consumers to always read labels carefully and to report any adverse reactions to Health Canada.
In response to this incident, the Canadian Health Food Association, which represents the natural health product industry, stated that they are committed to ensuring the safety and quality of natural health products and will continue to work with Health Canada to address any issues.
This serves as a reminder to always be vigilant when it comes to what we put into our bodies. Natural supplements may seem harmless, but it is important to do thorough research and consult with a healthcare professional before taking them. As this woman’s experience shows, the consequences of not doing so could be catastrophic.
