The Gauteng Department of Health has issued a stern warning to the public over the growing use of unregulated injectable substances marketed for body enhancement and sexual performance, following two serious medical cases in Ekurhuleni.
In a statement released on Thursday, the department said the two individuals were admitted to a public health facility with severe complications, including organ failure, after allegedly using unverified injectable products obtained through informal channels.
According to the department, the substances were used for “body enhancement purposes, including practices commonly referred to as ‘BBL’ procedures, as well as for sexual performance enhancement”.
Health officials said preliminary investigations suggest the substances are being distributed outside regulated healthcare settings and, in some cases, are sold directly to users along with syringes and equipment for self-injection.
“The Department reiterates that such products are not approved for human use and their composition remains unknown, posing significant risks to public health and safety,” the statement read.
Authorities are now working with law enforcement agencies and regulatory bodies to trace the origin and distribution networks behind the substances.
“The Department is working in collaboration with relevant regulatory and law enforcement authorities to trace the source and distribution of these substances and to ensure appropriate compliance and enforcement action is taken to prevent further incidents,” the department said.
The department also raised concern over misleading information being circulated about the effects of the injections, warning that symptoms such as pain, swelling and burning are not signs that the products are working.
“The Department is concerned about misleading claims associated with such products, including the notion that pain, swelling or burning following injection indicates effectiveness,” the statement said.
“These symptoms are, in fact, often indicative of serious underlying complications.”
Residents have been urged to avoid injectable products that are not prescribed or administered by qualified healthcare professionals and to report the sale of unregistered medicines and enhancement products to authorities.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over underground cosmetic procedures and illicit enhancement products being promoted on social media and sold through informal networks, often without medical oversight or safety testing.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
