Health Canada warning about the dangers of illegal sexual enhancement products

Over the past year, dozens of pills that were said to help enhance sexual performance have been pulled from markets across Canada. This has raised concerns about the dangers of using unauthorized products.

Between March and December 2023, Health Canada recalled 206 unauthorized sexual enhancement products from stores in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia, according to a public alert updated on Dec. 27.

Medicines declared illegal by this ministry contain dangerous substances. Most of the pills seized last month contained prescription drugs such as tadalafil, sildenafil, levodopa, progesterone and yohimbe, which should only be used under the supervision of a professional. Sildenafil under the brand name Viagra (and tadalafil under the brand name Cialis) is prescribed for men with erectile dysfunction. The packaging of these products has made some men feel that they are "more attractive" and "unrivaled". Men can buy these drugs without a prescription or consultation.

Drugs that are commonly found in illegal sexual enhancement products can cause a series of adverse health outcomes for people, which, according to the Ministry of Health, include: dizziness, headache, indigestion, hearing loss, facial flushing, and abnormal vision. All are related to sildenafil and tadalafil.

People who have underlying heart problems are also at risk of high blood pressure, stroke, chest pain and heart attack by taking these drugs.

Yohimbine, which is extracted from the bark of the yohimbe tree, can cause nausea, tremors, anxiety, dizziness, headache, sleep disorders, and increased blood pressure and heart rate. According to the Ministry of Health, pregnant and lactating women or those with liver, heart or kidney diseases should not use this substance.

Several aphrodisiac products, such as Viagra, are licensed in Canada and available by prescription. Some drugs can also be bought online, but according to experts, it is not possible for the layman to tell which ones are safe, so it is advised to "be cautious" and consult a doctor before taking such drugs.

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