Advisory - Unauthorized Matrix Red and White Vein Thai, and Medicine Man Lone Wolf kratom capsules recalled by RGR Canada Inc.

OTTAWA, June 12, 2017 /CNW/ -

Issue
Health Canada is advising Canadians that RGR Canada Inc. is voluntarily recalling unauthorized "Matrix Red Vein Thai," "Matrix White Vein Thai" and "Medicine Man Lone Wolf" kratom capsules. Kratom may pose serious health risks when swallowed or inhaled. The products were being distributed by RGR Canada Inc. for sale at various retail locations in Alberta, British Columbia and Nova Scotia.

Health Canada has not authorized any product containing kratom for sale. It is illegal to sell any health products in Canada without authorization from Health Canada. The Department advises consumers not to swallow or inhale products labeled to contain kratom because of the potential side effects, including liver and heart problems.

Who is affected

• Consumers who have bought or used these products

Affected products

• Matrix Red Vein Thai
• Matrix White Vein Thai
• Medicine Man Lone Wolf

What consumers should do

• Stop using these products. Consult with your health care professional if you have used any of these products and have health concerns.
• Read product labels to verify that health products have been authorized for sale by Health Canada. Authorized health products have an eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), Natural Product Number (NPN) or Homeopathic Drug Number (DIN-HM). You can also check whether products have been authorized for sale by searching Health Canada's Drug Product Database and Licensed Natural Health Product Database.
• Report adverse events to health products to Health Canada by calling toll-free at 1?866?234?2345, or by reporting online, by mail or by fax.
• Report complaints about health products to Health Canada by calling toll-free at 1?800?267?9675, or complete an online complaint form.

What Health Canada is doing
Health Canada has requested and received confirmation from RGR Canada Inc. that it has stopped selling and initiated a voluntary recall of these products. Health Canada is monitoring the recall and will take additional action if necessary to prevent further sale of these products in Canada.

Background
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an herbal product that may pose serious health risks when swallowed or inhaled. Side effects include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, liver toxicity and excessively rapid heartbeat. Kratom has been linked to both narcotic and stimulant-like effects, and has potential for abuse and dependence.

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To learn more about natural health products and other self-care products, visit Canada.ca/selfcare-products.

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SOURCE Health Canada