Asihuri Plus Forte
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use Asihuri Plus Forte, a product promoted for joint and nerve pain. This product was identified by FDA during an examination of international mail shipments. FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that Asihuri Plus Forte contains dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, and phenylbutazone.
Consumers taking Asihuri Plus Forte are urged to immediately consult with their health care provider to safely discontinue use of this product. The risks of withdrawal from corticosteroids should be assessed by a health care professional. Only licensed health care professionals can evaluate patients for the risk, or confirm the existence, of adrenal suppression. To date, FDA is not aware of any reports of adverse events related to this product.
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions. Consumers are advised that corticosteroid use can impair a person’s ability to fight infections, cause high blood sugar levels, muscle injuries and psychiatric problems. When corticosteroids are taken for a prolonged period, or at high doses, they can suppress the adrenal gland and cause withdrawal symptoms with abrupt discontinuation.
Phenylbutazone is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that was discontinued for human use in the United States due to the risk of serious and life-threatening injuries. The most serious and life-threatening injury associated with phenylbutazone treatment is bone marrow toxicity, which occurs when the body does not produce enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and/or platelets. Certain types of bone marrow toxicity are reversible; however, in rare circumstances it can lead to death. Patients with anemia, low white or red blood cell count, or decreased blood platelets may be at a greater risk of death or serious injury.
In addition, these undeclared ingredients in Asihuri Plus Forte may cause serious side effects when combined with other medications.