Two banned substances in Ngân 98's weight-loss product may cause cancer.

On October 13th, Vo Thi Ngoc Ngan (aka DJ Ngan 98), the operator of ZuBu Trading and Service Company Limited and ZuBu Shop business, was arrested and detained by the Economic Police Department of Ho Chi Minh City Police for investigation into crimes.Manufacturing and trading counterfeit food products.According to Article 193 of the Penal Code.

The forensic examination results from the Institute of Criminal Science - Ministry of Public Security determined that the products manufactured and sold by Ngan did not meet the declared quality standards and were counterfeit. Some samples of "Collagen tablets" contained the banned substances sibutramine and phenolphthalein – active ingredients that can cause cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, digestive disorders, and pose a potential risk of cancer, seriously affecting consumer health.

Sibutramine was once used in weight-loss drugs because it inhibits the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, making users feel full quickly and reducing appetite. However, this very mechanism causes the heart to beat faster, blood pressure to rise, and blood vessels to constrict. This is the reason why drugs containing sibutramine are banned from circulation. In Vietnam, since 2010, the Drug Administration of the Ministry of Health has directed the cessation of licensing for the import of sibutramine raw materials. In April 2011, this agency suspended nationwide circulation and recalled all drugs containing the active ingredient sibutramine.

When blood vessels narrow, the heart has to work harder, leading to increased pressure and a risk of damage in people with underlying conditions such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes. This can cause arrhythmias and a range of other cardiovascular diseases, even posing a risk of sudden death. More dangerously, users may not notice early symptoms and may think their bodies are healthier, losing weight, or having better skin, while the toxins accumulate day by day.

Even in small doses, prolonged use over several weeks or months can cause damage to blood vessels and the heart muscle. For individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, the risk of acute complications is very real.

Phenolphthalein was previously used in laxatives but has been banned due to its cytotoxicity and potential carcinogenicity. Phenolphthalein is not permitted in food or pharmaceuticals because numerous studies have shown it poses a risk of cytotoxicity, digestive disorders, and gene mutations leading to cancer.

Dr. Doan Du Manh, a member of the Vietnam Vascular Disease Association, said that the discovery of these two substances in collagen tablets is "very worrying" because they directly affect the heart and blood vessels – organs that are very sensitive to changes in nerve function and blood pressure.

"This substance strongly stimulates bowel movements, causing diarrhea, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and especially hypokalemia (low potassium levels). When potassium levels drop, myocardial conduction can be disrupted, leading to arrhythmias, muscle weakness, or sudden cardiac arrest," Dr. Manh explained.

Furthermore, phenolphthalein increases the burden on the liver and kidneys, two organs responsible for metabolizing and eliminating toxins. Long-term use can lead to impaired liver and kidney function without the user even knowing.

Dr. Manh advises consumers to choose products with safety certifications and testing from relevant authorities. Collagen only supports the structure of skin, hair, and joints; it cannot help with weight loss or rapid skin whitening. Products advertised as "instant results" or "beautify skin and reduce fat simultaneously" should be considered a warning sign.

"Avoid buying products online through social media and do not use products of unknown origin. If you experience symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or prolonged diarrhea, stop immediately and go to a medical facility for examination," Mr. Mạnh said.

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