Fake Cialis seized from South China Herbs Market Inc. in Toronto

Health Canada has seized counterfeit Cialis from South China Herbs Market Inc. in Toronto, Ontario (493 Dundas St W), in addition to a variety of other unauthorized sexual enhancement products and an unauthorized skin treatment product. The implications of these findings highlight serious concerns for consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

The manufacturer of Cialis has confirmed that the seized product is counterfeit and that the lot number and expiry date on the blister packs are fraudulent and non-existent in authentic records.

Selling counterfeit health products in Canada constitutes a serious legal violation. Counterfeit drugs are designed to mimic authentic products but are inherently different and could lead to severe health risks. They have not undergone the rigorous assessments by Health Canada regarding safety, efficacy, and quality and may contain:

• no active ingredient at all
• a dosage significantly higher than what is indicated on the label
• hazardous contaminants and undisclosed ingredients that can lead to adverse health outcomes

Like the genuine version, the seized product is deceitfully labelled to contain the prescription drug tadalafil. Tadalafil should only be administered under the guidance of a qualified health care professional. It is particularly important to avoid using this medication in conjunction with any nitrate drugs (e.g., nitroglycerin) due to the risk of potentially life-threatening low blood pressure levels. Individuals with cardiovascular issues have an increased risk of experiencing serious side effects, including but not limited to heart attacks, strokes, chest pain, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeats. Additional adverse effects may include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, dizziness, abnormal vision, and potential hearing loss.

The most effective measure to ensure the authenticity of your prescription drug is to procure it from a licensed pharmacy, accompanied by a prescription from your health care provider. Prescription medications cannot be legally sold outside of licensed establishments and should only be utilized under the supervision of a health care professional, as they are intended for the treatment of specific health conditions and carry the potential for serious side effects.

• Immediately discontinue use and ensure the safe disposal of the product to prevent any accidental consumption or health risks.
• Consult a health care professional (physician, nurse, pharmacist) urgently if you have ingested this product and have health concerns that may arise as a result.
• Only procure your prescription medications from licensed pharmacies. If you have any doubts regarding the legitimacy of a pharmacy, reach out to the pharmacy regulatory authority in your province or territory. Furthermore, educate yourself on safe practices for purchasing sexual enhancement products, and be vigilant for signs indicating that your product may be counterfeit.
• Report any adverse reactions or complaints related to health products to Health Canada immediately.