Sex Supplement Recalled in Canada

OTTAWAMagic Health Food Corp. recalled its Natural Vigor Maximum after Health Canada testing found it contained dimethylhomosildenafil, a drug similar to the erectile dysfunction prescription medication sildenafil. Health Canada said the product may pose serious risks, such as life-threatening low blood pressure.

The agency warned Canadians, particularly individuals with heart problems, those at risk of stroke or those taking any nitrate drug, that they should speak to healthcare practitioners regarding the use of Natural Vigor Maximum, which was  marketed for increasing sexual energy and performance.

The product was sold by distributor Magic Health Food Corp. at Magic Health (Toronto), Herb Vitamin (Mississauga) and Smart Natural Health Products Inc. (Markham), as well as through its website. Natural Vigor Maximum was manufactured in Canada by Professional Botanicals Inc., and Health Canada warned these products may have been sold in additional retail locations.

 As of June 19, 2012, Health Canada said it had not received adverse reactions reports associated with the use of this product; however, it encouraged consumers to report any adverse reaction to Health Canada.

Individuals with heart problems including high blood pressure, a history of heart attack, stroke, abnormal heart beat or chest pain are at higher risk of cardiovascular side effects if they engage in sexual activity, including if they use sildenafil to help them achieve an erection, according to Health Canada. Other possible side effects of using sildenafil include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, dizziness, abnormal vision and hearing loss. Sildenafil has been at the root of many recalled sexual health products in the United States.