1) Lack of quality Control - one study measure active ephedra and it ranged from 0-1000% of the reported amount.
2) Potential to do Harm - Ephedra is one but there are herbals that can induce abortions
3) Unsubstantiated claims may have patients forego effective therapy
4) Herbals may interact with prescription drugs to create adverse side effects.
Why Won't Health Canada Act??
1) Concensus by Committee - Health Canada makes decisions in a group hence avoiding individual responsibility.
2) Liability - Health Canada is afraid of being sued by manufacturers or consumers.
3) Very few adverse reaction reports - a reflection of lack of physician knowledge.
4) Policy - Health Canada would follow a FDA withdrawl but not initiate one unilaterally.
5) DIN - Drug Identification Numbers are suppose to be obtained if your product makes a medical claim (ie cholesterol lowering) Most do not and Health Canada doesn't have the staff to police this.
SOLUTIONS
1) Legistlation needs to be passed giving Health Canada immunity from prosecution in cases where they believe the "public safey" is at risk
2) Health Canada needs to be given the staff to enforce the existing laws as pertaining to DINs.
3) Health Canada needs to establish a group of advisors who can respond rapidly should a health concern be raised regarding a drug or treatment
4) Herbal remedies should be governed by the same high standards of quality control that governs prescription and non prescription drugs. Medical claims need to be substantiated by scientific proof.
5) Physicians, patients and government agencies need to be made aware of the potential adverse reactions to herbal remedies. This would increase adverse incidence reports.
