21 December 2000
Director General Of Health Privileged Statement Under Section 98 Of The Medicines Act 1981
The Director General of Health, Dr Karen Poutasi today advised consumers to stop taking the dietary supplement Cheng
Kum Capsule because it contains a pharmacy only antihistamine, chlorpheniramine, that could cause drowsiness.
Cheng Kum Capsules are distributed by Lee Bye (NZ ) Ltd in Wellington, and are advertised for use in the treatment of
various conditions including the promotion of joint mobility, healthy skin, as a support during menopause. It is also
promoted as being beneficial while consuming alcoholic drinks.
The Ministry recently received two complaints about the product.
Tests on the capsules found that Cheng Kum Capsules contain a pharmacy only antihistamine, chlorpheniramine, that is
not declared on the label. In addition, the product has not been assessed or approved by the Ministry of Health for
distribution as a medicine.
Dr Poutasi said chlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness, and should not be taken with alcohol. It may also affect the
ability to drive a vehicle or operate machinery.
The Ministry is advising consumers to stop taking the supplement. Any unused product should be returned to the
distributor.
Cheng Kum Capsules have been available in New Zealand since 1999. They are distributed by:
Lee Bye (NZ) Ltd P O Box 27428 Wellington.
The distributor is working with the Ministry of Health to recall the product from sales outlets.
Signed by Dr Karen Poutasi Director General of Health
END
For further information contact:
Selina Gentry, Media Advisor, 04 496 2483 or 025 277 5411 Internet Address; http://www.moh.govt.nz/media.html