The Gauteng Department of Health has warned the public against the use of unverified and unregulated injectable substances for body enhancement and sexual performance purposes.
The department’s warning comes after it launched an investigation into what it described as two serious cases reported in the Ekurhuleni region.
The two individuals were admitted to a public healthcare facility with severe complications, including organ failure, following the use of unregulated substances obtained through informal channels.
“These substances were reportedly administered for body enhancement purposes, including practices commonly referred to as ‘BBL’ procedures, as well as for sexual performance enhancement.
“Preliminary findings indicate that these substances are being accessed outside regulated healthcare environments and, in some instances, are supplied directly to individuals together with equipment for self-administration.
“The department reiterates that such products are not approved for human use and their composition remains unknown, posing significant risks to public health and safety,” warned department spokesperson Steve Mabona.
In addition, Mabona said the department is working in collaboration with relevant regulatory and law enforcement authorities to ensure that appropriate enforcement and corrective measures are implemented to deter future violations.
He urged the public to exercise caution and avoid any unauthorised injectable product that has not been prescribed and administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
“The department is concerned about misleading claims associated with such products, including the notion that pain, swelling or burning following injection indicates effectiveness.
“These symptoms are, in fact, often indicative of serious underlying complications,” said Mabona.
He further encouraged residents to report the sale or distribution of unregistered medicines and related products to the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority.
