The ACT Chief Health Officer has issued a warning to people using sports supplements for body building and weight loss to be aware that the products could contain dangerous substances.
Dr Paul Kelly said ACT Health was currently investigating the sale of sports and other supplements in the ACT, following complaints to the Health Protection Service.
“The sport supplements we are investigating contain a variety of substances, some of which can have significant impacts on someone’s health when taken without advice from a health professional,” Dr Kelly said.
“The products are being sold locally and primarily through sports supplement stores, which is why this is so concerning and why Canberrans need to be warned.”
He said there was a myth — particularly in fitness communities — that if used in small amounts users would be safe, but even small amounts of the substances could be a health risk.
“Our message to Canberrans is simple — buyers beware,” Dr Kelly said.
“These substances are banned for a reason. They pose a significant health risk and for the majority of these substances there is no legitimate medical use.
“We strongly advise users to stop taking these supplements immediately. Anyone concerned about their health should also contact their general practitioner for further advice.”
He said the sport supplement products that had been found as part of the investigation were labelled to contain substances, such as selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs), cardarine, tadalafil, oxedrine, melatonin and phenibut.
A 5-page information sheet about substances in sports supplements is available on the ACT Health website at this PS News link.
