Advisory

2001-91
August 17, 2001

Health Canada advising not to use products labelled to contain Aristolochia

OTTAWA - Health Canada reminds consumers not to use products labelled as containing Aristolochia, which is considered to be potentially toxic. Aristolochia is an herb which produces aristolochic acid and has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. Aristolochic acid can cause cancer, changes in human cells and kidney failure.

Health Canada first issued a warning on Aristolochia in November 1999. At that time, Health Canada asked retailers, manufacturers and importers to discontinue sale of certain products that were analyzed and found to contain aristolochic acid. However, a recent market survey in Canada showed that some products labelled as containing Aristolochia are still being found on the shelves.

Health Canada is currently investigating these products, as well as products labelled to contain other herbs such as Stephania, Clematis, Akebia and Asarum for the presence of aristolochic acid. Aristolochia might have been used as a substitute for these herbs in some traditional Chinese medicines under the traditional name of Mu Tong. Consumers are therefore advised not to use products labelled to contain Mu Tong or any of the herbs listed above.

Health Canada is also taking further action with manufacturers to prevent the sale of products which may contain aristolochic acid. A Customs Alert has been re-issued, to ensure that products containing Aristolochia do not enter Canada.

There have been numerous international reports of death or injury from kidney failure due to ingestion of products found to contain aristolochic acid. Other countries, including the United States and member states of the European Union, have taken regulatory action to address the risk of aristolochic acid to consumers.

To date, no reports of adverse or toxic reactions related to products containing aristolochic acid have been reported in Canada.

Media inquiries:
Ryan Baker
Health Canada
(613) 941-8189