The herbal product Hong Thai Inhaler has been banned from sale in Malaysia after it was discovered to be unregistered with the Drug Control Authority (DCA). The decision follows a reported recall in Thailand due to contamination with dangerous bacteria.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) announced immediate control measures, including screening e-commerce platforms, blocking sellers’ links, and enforcing ongoing monitoring against those selling the product.
The Pharmacy Enforcement Division (BPF) identified 335 online links advertising and selling Hong Thai Inhaler from both local and foreign sellers. Complaints have been submitted to the platforms for prompt removal of the listings.
The public is urged to stop using the product immediately and to seek medical attention if any side effects or unusual symptoms occur.
MOH also advised consumers to verify the registration status of medicines by checking the hologram security sticker and MAL registration number, or via the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) website at www.npra.gov.my under “Product Search.”
Complaints about unregistered medicines can be submitted through the SisPAA portal at http://moh.spab.gov.my, or by contacting the nearest Pharmacy Enforcement Branch at 03-7841 3200.
Authorities warned that possession or sale of unregistered medicines is an offense under Regulation 7(1)(a) of the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulation 1984, punishable under Section 12 of the Sale of Drugs Act 1952. Individuals may face fines up to RM25,000 or up to 3 years in jail, while companies can be fined up to RM50,000.
