Health Canada Warns of Bacteria in Unauthorized Peptides Seized from Shanghai Company
Health Canada has warned consumers against using unauthorized peptides sold online after laboratory testing found three harmful bacteria in products seized from Shanghai ERP Peptide Biotechnology Co. Ltd. and two associated retailers. The agency seized more than 11,400 vials of drugs and is working with the Canada Border Services Agency to halt shipments.
Health Canada has issued a warning urging consumers not to use unauthorized peptides sold online after laboratory testing revealed the presence of three different bacteria that could be harmful to humans. The contaminated products were seized from Shanghai ERP Peptide Biotechnology Co. Ltd., also known as ERP Peptide, and two online retailers selling the company's products.
During the enforcement action, Health Canada seized more than 11,400 vials of drugs. The unauthorized products sold by ERP Peptide include Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, MOTS-C, NAD+, Retatrutide, Tesamorelin, and Tirzepatide. In Canada, injectable peptides are generally regulated as prescription drugs that require care by licensed healthcare professionals.
Health Canada stated that selling unauthorized drug products is illegal and that these items have not been assessed for safety, efficacy, or quality. The agency warned that risks associated with unauthorized peptides include hormonal imbalance, mood swings, blood sugar imbalance, liver or kidney damage, blood clots, and the growth of cancerous tumours. Furthermore, unauthorized drugs may contain incorrect amounts of active ingredients, dangerous unknown ingredients, solvents, heavy metals, glass or plastic particles, or microbials due to a lack of sterility testing.
To address the issue, Health Canada has requested that ERP Peptide stop selling its illegal products into Canada. The agency is also working with the Canada Border Services Agency to stop unauthorized shipments from entering the country.
Health Canada advises consumers who have used these products and develop fever, pain, or swelling at the injection site to seek immediate medical attention.