The Fraser Health Authority is investigating two cases of lead poisoning that may be linked to Ayurvedic medicines and the consumption of opium-containing products.
British Columbia’s largest health authority issued a warning after two people fell ill with lead poisoning suspected to be linked to Ayurvedic herbal medicines and products containing opium.
The Fraser Health Authority issued a public warning on Monday, noting that opium-containing products are widely used by some South Asian residents and are made directly from the poppy plant. The products, sold as doda and afeem, may be contaminated with heavy metals such as lead, mercury and arsenic, as well as other toxins, the warning said.
“Some Ayurvedic medicines contain high levels of heavy metals that are harmful to the body,” the warning states.
Ayurveda is a “natural medicine” that has been used by people in India for over 5,000 years. It uses herbal remedies and delivers treatment through massage, meditation, yoga and dietary changes.
Side effects of lead poisoning include fatigue, irritability, headache, muscle aches, abdominal discomfort or pain, constipation, vomiting, and tremors. More severe symptoms include abdominal pain, seizures, decreased consciousness, numbness, and muscle weakness.
The British Columbia Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) and Fraser Health are investigating the two cases of lead poisoning but would not say where the products were purchased, and the BCCDC said it is difficult to tell which products are contaminated.
Identifying registered drugs using natural product numbers
A spokesperson for the Fraser Health Authority said cases of lead poisoning are rare, but steps can be taken to reduce the risk. Health officials encourage people to check the natural product number and see if it’s registered with Health Canada.
“If you are using the product without an NPN, or if you are using doda or afeem, you can talk to your healthcare provider about other options,” the spokesperson said.
Public Health officials said anyone experiencing symptoms of lead poisoning or other side effects should seek medical attention and call the BC Drug and Poison Control Centre at 604-682-5050 or 1-800-567-8911.
In 2019, the Fraser Health Authority issued a health alert urging people to discard products purchased at the Datta Health Centre Ayurvedic Clinic in Surrey after the products were tested and found to contain heavy metals above permitted levels.
Fraser Health has issued a health hazard order under the Public Health Act against the owners of Datta Clinic following an investigation into lead exposure.
