The Gauteng Department of Health has warned residents against using unregulated injectable substances for body enhancement and sexual performance after two serious cases were reported in Ekurhuleni.
According to the department, the two individuals were admitted to a public health facility with severe complications, including organ failure, after using unknown substances bought through informal channels.
The injections were reportedly used for body enhancement procedures commonly known as โBBLโ treatments, as well as sexual enhancement purposes.
Health officials said preliminary investigations revealed that some of these substances are being sold outside regulated healthcare facilities and are sometimes supplied with needles and equipment for self-injection.
The department stressed that these products are not approved for human use and their ingredients are unknown, making them extremely dangerous.
The department also warned people not to believe misleading claims that pain, swelling or a burning sensation after injection means the product is โworkingโ.
Officials said these symptoms could actually be signs of serious medical complications.
The Gauteng Department of Health is now working with law enforcement agencies and regulatory authorities to trace the source of the substances and stop their distribution.
Health experts warn that these substances are sometimes sold through social media, beauty groups, informal salons and private homes without medical approval. For sexual enhancement products, authorities around the world have previously warned about products sold under names such as โRhinoโ, โRoyal Honey.
Residents are urged to avoid any injectable product that has not been prescribed and administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
Members of the public can report the sale of unregistered medicines or suspicious injectable products to the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) by emailing enquiries@sahpra.org.za or calling 012 501 0300.
