Warning

2003-90
November 26, 2003
For immediate release

Health Canada warns public not to use Bell Magicc Bullet

OTTAWA - Health Canada is again warning consumers not to use Bell Magicc Bullet, after the company that distributes the product, Bell Distributors Ltd. of Mississauga, Ontario, refused to comply with Health Canada's request to remove the product from the shelves. Bell Magicc Bullet was found by Health Canada to contain an unauthorized chemical ingredient, Sildenafil. Sildenafil is a prescription drug approved for male erectile dysfunction, authorized for sale under the brand name Viagra^® . Inappropriate use of Sildenafil can cause severe adverse reactions.

Sildenafil should not be used by individuals who are taking any nitrate medication or products. Nitrate medications are commonly used for some types of heart disease. Concurrent use could result in the development of potentially life-threatening low blood pressure. In extremely rare instances, use of Sildenafil could result in penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency.

Because Bell Distributors has not complied with requests to recall Magicc Bullet, Health Canada is taking further compliance and enforcement actions to mitigate the risk to consumers.

A previous warning was issued on November 14^th regarding two products, Stamen and Bell Magicc Bullet. This previous warning stated that Health Canada was working with distributors to remove both products from the market. While the distributor for Stamen complied with Health Canada's request to remove their product from the shelves, the distributor for Bell Magicc Bullet refused to comply with Health Canada's request. Consequently, consumers are again being warned not to use or buy Bell Magicc Bullet, and further enforcement action is being taken by Health Canada.

Bell Magicc Bullet does not have a DIN (drug identification number), and is not labelled to show that it contains Sildenafil. No adverse reports have been associated with the use of Bell Magicc Bullet.

This warning has been sent to advise consumers, health care professionals, and the provincial and territorial Ministries of Health of the safety issues related to the use of Bell Magicc Bullet. Consumers who have used Bell Magicc and have concerns should contact their physicians or health care providers.

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Media Inquiries:
Krista Apse
Health Canada
(613) 954-4807

Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991