LifestyleEntertainmentMoneyFood InfoFinanceHealthyEducationCar

Sexual enhancement candy and weight-loss coffee found to contain controlled substances

Healthy

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) is warning the public against two products being sold on e-commerce platforms that contain controlled substances.

The agency detected tadalafil, a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction, in a product called Ferrari Candy — which is marketed as a sexual enhancement product claiming to boost stamina and vitality, it said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 16).

The product's logo looks similar to that of the car manufacturer of the same name, but they are unrelated. It is also advertised as "Rerrarii Candy" on TikTok.

The inappropriate use of tadalafil is dangerous and can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, headache, migraine, irregular heart rate, and priapism (painful and exceedingly long erections), said SFA.

The medication can also pose serious risks to individuals with heart-related problems as it can cause potentially life-threatening low blood pressure in those who are on heart medications, especially those containing nitrates.

The agency also found weight-loss medication sibutramine in TK Premium Coffee, which is marketed as a weight reduction product that claims to accelerate fat burning, increase metabolism and suppress appetite.

Sibutramine is a prescription medicine banned in Singapore since 2010 as it causes an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Other serious health consequences reported with its use include heart problems and central nervous system disorders such as psychosis and hallucinations. 

Seizures have also been reported with the use of sibutramine, said SFA.

Both products were available on various local e-commerce platforms, which have worked with SFA to remove the listings. 

The agency has also issued advisories to the respective sellers to stop selling the products with immediate effect, it said.

SFA warns members of the public to not consume these products if they have purchased them. Those who have already done so and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice, it said.

The agency also urged the public to exercise caution and be mindful of the risks associated with consuming food bought from unknown or unverified sources, and are advised to seek more information before making any purchase.

Members of the public who have any information on the sale and supply of these products may write to SFA at .

bhavya.rawat@asiaone.com

AD

AD

Recommended

Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Singapore's Obesity Crisis: Why It's Rising and How to Fight Back
Singapore is facing a growing health challenge – obesity rates are climbing at an alarming rate, with serious implications for public health.
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
FDA Experts Unanimously Back JN.1-Targeted COVID Vaccines for 2026-2026 Season
In a decisive move to stay ahead of the evolving pandemic, US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel members voted unanimously on Thursday (May 22) to recommend next-generation COVID-19 vaccines specifically designed to combat emerging JN.1 variant strains for the 2026-2026 immunization campaign.
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
Beyond Baby Blues: The Hidden Struggles of Postpartum Depression and Workplace Challenges
The journey of motherhood is often painted with images of radiant joy and unconditional love. Yet for many women, this transformative chapter comes with unexpected emotional turbulence that goes far deeper than temporary "baby blues."
World Oral Health Day: The Surprising Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
World Oral Health Day: The Surprising Connection Between Gum Disease and Heart Health
March 20 marks World Oral Health Day - the perfect opportunity to explore how your dental hygiene impacts far more than just your smile. Emerging research reveals startling connections between oral health and overall wellbeing that might surprise you.
Polio Eradication at Risk as US Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Efforts
Polio Eradication at Risk as US Funding Cuts Threaten Global Health Efforts
LONDON — The global fight to eliminate polio faces significant setbacks due to drastic funding cuts from the United States, which could delay eradication efforts and leave more children vulnerable to paralysis, warns a top World Health Organization (WHO) official.
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
WHO Sounds Alarm: Europe's Shocking Lack of Awareness on Alcohol-Cancer Link
GENEVA — The World Health Organisation (WHO) has uncovered startling new data revealing a dangerous gap in public knowledge across Europe regarding alcohol's direct connection to cancer. In a bold move, the health authority is urging governments to implement mandatory tobacco-style warning labels on alcoholic beverages—particularly in the world’s heaviest-drinking region.
China Prioritizes Physical Education in Schools to Combat Rising Childhood Obesity
China Prioritizes Physical Education in Schools to Combat Rising Childhood Obesity
HONG KONG — In a bold move to address growing concerns over childhood obesity, China is elevating physical education (PE) from a secondary subject to a core component of the school curriculum. The initiative aims to foster a more balanced approach to education, integrating fitness with academics for well-rounded student development.
US HIV/AIDS Aid Program Faces Uncertainty After Abortion Policy Violation in Mozambique
US HIV/AIDS Aid Program Faces Uncertainty After Abortion Policy Violation in Mozambique
WASHINGTON — A major US-funded global health initiative is under scrutiny following revelations that healthcare workers in Mozambique violated program guidelines by performing abortions, sparking concerns about the future of the multibillion-dollar effort credited with saving millions of lives worldwide.
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
Wildfire Smoke Linked to Higher Death Risk in Lung Cancer Patients, Study Reveals
A groundbreaking California study presented at a major medical conference on May 31 suggests that wildfire smoke could significantly increase mortality risks for lung cancer patients, with non-smokers being particularly vulnerable. However, certain cancer treatments might help counteract these effects.
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
WHO Nears Historic Pandemic Treaty Deal After Marathon Negotiations
GENEVA - After three years of intense negotiations, member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) are on the verge of finalizing a groundbreaking treaty to strengthen global pandemic preparedness, according to sources close to the talks. The discussions, which continued through Friday night into Saturday morning (April 12), have been temporarily paused until Tuesday as officials work to resolve remaining sticking points.
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Healthy Ramadan & Hari Raya: Expert Tips to Stay Energized and Avoid Overindulgence
Fasting from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan can test one's endurance, making it crucial to maintain energy levels while resisting the temptation of overeating. As the holy month transitions into the joyous celebrations of Hari Raya Puasa (Aidilfitri), balancing festive feasts with mindful eating becomes essential for well-being.
South Korea Reports First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Cattle Farm After Nearly Two Years
South Korea Reports First Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak in Cattle Farm After Nearly Two Years
SEOUL — South Korea's agriculture ministry announced on Friday (March 14) that a confirmed case of foot-and-mouth disease has been detected in a cattle farm, marking the country's first outbreak in nearly two years.
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
Global Air Quality Crisis: Only 7 Nations Meet WHO Standards as US Monitoring Cuts Loom
SINGAPORE — In a startling revelation about the state of our planet's air, just seven countries worldwide met the World Health Organisation's (WHO) stringent air quality benchmarks last year. This alarming data comes as environmental researchers sound the alarm about worsening pollution tracking capabilities following the shutdown of crucial US-led global monitoring initiatives.
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Scientists Discover Bat Virus with Similar Traits to Covid-19, But Risk of Human Spread Remains Low
Chinese researchers have identified a bat coronavirus that shares a key trait with the virus behind Covid-19—it uses the same ACE2 receptor to invade human cells. While this raises concerns about potential future transmission, experts caution against alarm, as the virus currently shows limited ability to infect humans.
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
South Africa's HIV Vaccine Breakthrough Stalled as US Funding Freeze Halts Critical Research
JOHANNESBURG — In a high-tech Johannesburg laboratory, Nozipho Mlotshwa and her team were on the verge of a potential breakthrough in the decades-long quest for an HIV vaccine. Their latest formulation had just triggered promising immune responses in animal trials when an abrupt order from Washington froze all progress.
Father-Daughter Duo's Inspiring Health Transformation: How Small Steps Led to Big Changes
Father-Daughter Duo's Inspiring Health Transformation: How Small Steps Led to Big Changes
Starting a healthier lifestyle often feels overwhelming, but as one father-daughter team discovered, the journey becomes much easier with the right support system and simple first steps. Their heartwarming story proves that positive change is within everyone's reach.
MaNaDr Strengthens Teleconsultation Protocols After Licence Revocation
MaNaDr Strengthens Teleconsultation Protocols After Licence Revocation
Following criticism over excessively brief teleconsultations, telehealth provider MaNaDr has announced stricter measures to enhance service quality and rebuild patient trust.
Taiwanese Star Barbie Hsu's Tragic Death at 48: How the Flu Turned Fatal
Taiwanese Star Barbie Hsu's Tragic Death at 48: How the Flu Turned Fatal
The entertainment world was left reeling this Monday (Feb 3) with the shocking news of Taiwanese actress-host Barbie Hsu's sudden passing. At just 48 years old, the beloved celebrity and mother of two succumbed to a severe case of pneumonia - an inflammation of lung tissue that reportedly developed from complications following influenza contracted during a recent holiday in Japan.
Take Charge of Your Health: A Simple Guide to Your First Healthier SG Consultation
Take Charge of Your Health: A Simple Guide to Your First Healthier SG Consultation
Feeling uncertain about improving your health but not sure where to start? You're not alone. Many people hesitate before taking that first step toward better well-being, but the journey begins with a single consultation.
Maharashtra Faces Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak: One Fatality Reported Amid Rising Cases
Maharashtra Faces Guillain-Barre Syndrome Outbreak: One Fatality Reported Amid Rising Cases
MUMBAI — Health officials in Maharashtra are on high alert after a concerning surge in Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) cases, with at least one death reported and multiple patients requiring critical care. The rare neurological disorder, known for causing muscle weakness and paralysis, has sparked urgent investigations across the state.