An imported complementary medicine has left one person hospitalised with severe lead poisoning in South Australia, prompting an urgent health warning.
SA Health said the patient had consumed Multani Kaminividravana Rasa, also known as Kamini, which are dark pellets marketed as a “powerful stimulant useful in weakness and lack of vigour and vitality”.
The authority said the tablets had been purchased locally from a south-east Asian supermarket but are suspected to have originated from overseas.
SA Health has analysed the tablets and found they also contain high levels of mercury.
Further testing is underway to determine if it also contains opioids like codeine and morphine.
SA Health executive director of health protection and regulation Dr Chris Lease said the tablets pose a significant risk and should never be consumed.
”They have not been assessed by the TGA for quality, safety or efficacy as required under Australian legislation,” he said.
“As they are not regulated, they may contain a potpourri of harmful ingredients some of which may cause severe illness and even death.
“Not only does the presence of heavy metals in the tablets pose a serious risk to your health, the potential inclusion of opioids also creates a high risk of dependence, further escalating potential harm.”
SA Health has notified hospital emergency departments and GPs of the patient’s recent hospitalisation and encouraged professionals to conduct blood lead testing for those with relevant symptoms.
Symptoms of acute lead poisoning include unexplained abdominal pain, constipation, nausea and vomiting, headache, fatigue, irritability, impaired concentration, seizures, coma, myalgia, renal impairment and anaemia.
Those who suspect they’re experiencing severe lead poisoning or opioid overdose are urged to seek urgent medical attention.
Lease also warned store owners that the import and supply of Multani Kamini Vidrawan Ras or any brand of Kamini tablets in Australia is illegal.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration is working with the Australian Border Force to stop shipments of the product, which are being clandestinely imported and sold in some grocery stores and online sites.
The Drug and Alcohol Services South Australia can be contacted on 1300 131 340 for advice on drug treatment and support.
The Poisons Information Centre can also offer advice on lead poisoning, by calling 13 11 26.
