Health authorities are warning about a complementary medicine product that has left a South Australian patient severely ill with lead poisoning.
The Therapeutic Goods Administrations has previously issued warnings about Multani Kaminividravana Rasa — more commonly known as kamini — which is promoted for improving strength and stamina.
SA Health said the product also contained high levels of mercury and is being further tested for opioids such as codeine and morphine.
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“The tablets pose a significant risk to health, particularly if they contain both high levels of heavy metals and opioids,” SA Health said.
“Consuming the product can result in not only heavy metal toxicity but also dependence and accidental overdose — all resulting in possible hospitalisation and even death.”
Symptoms of acute lead poisoning include unexplained abdominal pain, constipation, nausea and vomiting, headache, fatigue, irritability, impaired concentration, seizures, coma, renal impairment, and anaemia.
The South Australian patient purchased the product from a South-East Asian supermarket, despite the importation and sale of the product being illegal in Australia.
SA Health has informed SA emergency departments and doctors to test patients with similar symptoms for lead poisoning from kamini.
A medical journal reported in 2022 that Kamini led to an increase in opioid dependence, with 12 patients in Queensland and 12 patients in Victoria presenting with addiction symptoms.
The TGA warned anyone taking kamini to stop immediately and seek medical advice.