South Australia’s health authorities have issued an urgent warning after a person was hospitalized with severe lead poisoning linked to an imported complementary medicine.
The individual had consumed Multani Kaminividravana Rasa, also known as Kamini, dark pellets marketed as a potent stimulant for weakness and lack of vitality. The tablets were purchased from a south-east Asian supermarket but are believed to have originated overseas.
Analysis by SA Health revealed the tablets contain high levels of lead and mercury. Further testing is underway to determine if they also contain opioids like codeine and morphine.
Dr. Chris Lease, SA Health’s executive director of health protection and regulation, emphasized the significant risk posed by these tablets. “They have not undergone the necessary quality, safety, and efficacy assessments required by Australian law,” he explained.
“As unregulated products, they could contain a dangerous mix of ingredients, some of which may lead to severe illness or even death,” Dr. Lease warned. “The presence of heavy metals and the potential inclusion of opioids create a serious health threat, potentially leading to dependence and escalating harm.”
SA Health has alerted hospital emergency departments and GPs, urging them to consider blood lead testing for patients exhibiting relevant symptoms.
Symptoms of acute lead poisoning include unexplained abdominal pain, constipation, nausea and vomiting, headache, fatigue, irritability, impaired concentration, seizures, coma, muscle aches, kidney problems, and anemia.
Individuals suspected of experiencing severe lead poisoning or opioid overdose should seek immediate medical attention.
Dr. Lease also cautioned store owners that importing and selling Multani Kamini Vidrawan Ras, or any brand of Kamini tablets, is illegal in Australia. The Therapeutic Goods Administration is collaborating with the Australian Border Force to intercept shipments of the product, which are being clandestinely imported and sold in certain grocery stores and online.
For advice on drug treatment and support, contact Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia at 1300 131 340. The Poisons Information Centre can provide guidance on lead poisoning at 13 11 26.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Chris Lease, Executive Director of Health Protection and Regulation at SA Health
Time.news Editor: Good morning, Dr. Lease. Thank you for joining us today to discuss this urgent health warning regarding the recent case of lead poisoning in South Australia tied to an imported complementary medicine.
Dr. Chris Lease: Good morning, and thank you for having me. It’s an important topic that needs attention.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Can you explain what led to this urgent warning being issued by South Australia’s health authorities?
Dr. Lease: Absolutely. We received reports of a patient who was hospitalized due to severe lead poisoning. Upon investigation, we traced the source of the poisoning to a product called Multani Kaminividravana Rasa, commonly referred to as Kamini. This product was being marketed as a complementary medicine for weakness and vitality but, unfortunately, contained alarming levels of heavy metals.
Editor: It’s quite concerning that this product was available in a local supermarket. How did it end up being sold in South Australia?
Dr. Lease: The product appears to have been imported from overseas, specifically from a Southeast Asian country. Many complementary medicines are accessible through various channels, including supermarkets. Unfortunately, the lack of stringent regulations around such imports can pose risks to public health.
Editor: What kind of testing was conducted on the Kamini tablets, and what were the findings?
Dr. Lease: Our analysis revealed high concentrations of lead and mercury in the product, which are both toxic metals that pose significant health risks. We’re currently conducting further tests to determine whether the tablets also contain opioids, such as codeine or morphine. This is especially critical because such substances can be highly addictive and dangerous.
Editor: What health implications does lead poisoning have for those affected?
Dr. Lease: Lead poisoning can have severe effects on various systems in the body, particularly the nervous system, and can be especially detrimental in children. Symptoms can range from fatigue and headaches to more severe complications like cognitive impairment and organ damage in chronic cases. It’s essential that anyone suspected of exposure seeks medical attention immediately.
Editor: What steps are being taken to prevent such incidents from happening in the future?
Dr. Lease: We are actively working with customs and border protection to enhance our oversight of imported health products. Additionally, we’re strengthening our public health campaigns to educate consumers about the potential dangers of unregulated complementary medicines. We want to encourage people to be cautious of products that make bold health claims without scientific backing.
Editor: Given the popularity of complementary medicines, how can consumers ensure they are making safe choices?
Dr. Lease: Consumers should be vigilant about the products they choose to use. It’s advisable to consult healthcare professionals before trying new supplements or medicines, especially those that are imported. Checking for proper labeling, manufacturer details, and ensuring the product has been tested for safety and efficacy can also provide an additional layer of protection.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Lease, for shedding light on this critical issue. Your insights are invaluable in keeping the public informed and safe.
Dr. Lease: Thank you for providing a platform to discuss this. Public awareness is key in preventing health risks associated with unregulated products.