Steroids are controlled medications that should only be used under a doctor’s prescription for specific treatments but are often misused - December 18, 2025
MOH warns against unregistered HW Beauty herbal powder containing dangerous steroids
The ministry urges public to avoid HW Beauty’s date, honey, and lime powder after Singapore authorities detect Dexamethasone, Prednisolone, and Diclofenac in the product, citing serious health risks.
THE Ministry of Health (MOH) has warned the public against purchasing or using the unregistered traditional medicine product HW Beauty Mixed Powder of Dates, Honey, and Calamansi Lime, after tests revealed it contains hazardous substances that pose serious health risks.
KKM said the alert follows information from Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA), which reported adverse effects linked to the product.
Laboratory tests detected the presence of controlled steroids Dexamethasone and Prednisolone, as well as the anti-inflammatory drug Diclofenac.
“Steroids are controlled medications that should only be used under a doctor’s prescription for specific treatments but are often misused, including for body muscle building. Using steroids without medical supervision can cause serious complications such as kidney damage, hormonal imbalance, and increase the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure,” MOH said in a statement.
The Ministry also reminded the public that selling unregistered products constitutes an offence under the Sale of Drugs Act 1952.
First-time offenders may face fines of up to RM25,000, imprisonment for up to three years, or both, while repeat offenders could face fines up to RM50,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.
Enforcement action against retailers, distributors, and e-commerce platforms offering unregistered products forms part of ongoing efforts by the Johor Pharmacy Enforcement Branch to curb illegal drug distribution.
As part of these efforts, KKM continues to implement the “Reject Illegal Medicines” (TOBaTS) campaign, launched in 2024, to raise public awareness about the dangers of unregistered health products.
“Retailers, distributors, and e-commerce providers are reminded to ensure that only health products registered with a MAL number and carrying a valid Farmatag holographic safety sticker are allowed for sale,” the statement said.
Members of the public are advised to verify the registration status of medicines and health products through the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) website before purchase.
MOH also encourages reporting of suspicious product sales via the Public Complaint Management System (SISPAA) at [http://moh.spab.gov.my](http://moh.spab.gov.my), the ministry’s hotline at 03-7841 3200, or through the nearest pharmacy enforcement office. - December 18, 2025
