Health Canada has seized two unauthorized health products from Next Level Fitness, which has outlets in Richmond and Surrey.
The products, TRT (Testosterone Booster) and Freak’n Test (Testosterone Enhancer) — labelled to contain a prescription drug (L-Dopa) — were being sold at the Bridgeport Road store and may pose serious health risks, according to Health Canada.
Health Canada is recommending people consult their doctor if they have used any of these two products.
Of particular concern, are consumers with heart conditions, high blood pressure or diabetes who have bought or used TRT or Freak’n Test.
When buying health or fitness products, all consumers should:
- Read product labels to verify that health products have been authorized for sale by Health Canada. Authorized products have an eight-digit DIN, DIN-HM or NPN. Products that have been authorized for sale can be found by searching the Drug Product Database and the Licensed Natural Health Product Database;
- Report any adverse events to Health Canada;
- Report complaints about health products to Health Canada by calling toll-free to 1-800-267-9675, or complete an online complaint form.
L-Dopa, also known as levodopa, is authorized as a prescription drug when combined with other drug ingredients in anti-Parkinson’s medications.
Levodopa may interact with drugs prescribed for high blood pressure, and should not be used by women who are pregnant, who plan to become pregnant or who are breastfeeding.
It should also not be taken by people with narrow angle glaucoma; untreated heart, liver, kidney, lung or hormonal diseases; a history of melanoma, or those who should not take drugs such as isoproterenol, amphetamines or epinephrine.
General symptoms that can occur while taking levodopa which require medical attention include: uncontrollable movements of the face, eyelids, mouth, tongue, neck, arms, hands, or legs; severe or persistent nausea or vomiting; an irregular heartbeat or fluttering in the chest; feeling lightheaded when standing quickly, or unusual changes in mood or behaviour.
