Canada Libidus warning
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
Using the natural health product Libidus, which contains vardenafil, the same active ingredient contained in GlaxoSmithKiline's/Schering-Plough's Levitra, could pose health risks, especially for people with heart problems, taking heart medications or at risk for stroke, Health Canada announces. Libidus, which is manufactured in Malaysia by Bio-Gulf, contains a modified form of vardenafil, but the substance is not declared on product packages, the Canadian health agency says. Winnipeg, Manitoba-based distributor NorthRegentRX has been contacted and is recalling the product from Canadian markets, the agency says. Results of an FDA survey from earlier this year identified Libidus, and six other supplements as illegal because they contain undeclared non-dietary chemicals similar or equivalent to sildenafil or vardenafil (1"The Tan Sheet" July 17, 2006, p. 4). Products containing vardenafil should not be used by people taking nitrate medication because combining the products could result in dangerously low blood pressure...