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Australian man taking Kamini tablets hospitalized after lead poisoning: report | Popular

Australian man taking Kamini tablets hospitalized after lead poisoning: report | Popular

The health authorities in the South have issued an urgent health warning Australia following a serious case of lead poisoning linked to a product marketed as a complementary medicine. The item in question, known as Multani Kaminividravana Rasa or Kamini, was consumed by a patient who subsequently had to be hospitalized due to the alarming levels of lead and mercury found in the substance.

Health authorities warned about Kamini after one person was hospitalized for lead poisoning. (Representative image)(Unsplash)
Health authorities warned about Kamini after one person was hospitalized for lead poisoning. (Representative image)(Unsplash)

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Illegally imported and potentially dangerous

According to a report from local media outlet Nine News, the contaminated Kamini was purchased from a Southeast Asian supermarket in Adelaide and is believed to have been illegally imported into the country. The product is marketed as a ‘powerful stimulant’ intended to increase strength and vitality. It comes in the form of dark pellets but poses significant health risks due to its dangerous ingredients.

Chris Lease, director of protection and regulatory affairs at SA Health, highlighted the serious threats posed by unregulated products such as Kamini. “The presence of heavy metals and the possible absorption of opioids may pose a high risk of dependence and serious health consequences,” he stated. Previous analyzes by Kamini have revealed harmful substances, prompting several public health warnings in recent years.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) previously warned the public about Kamini, highlighting that its ingredients are classified as hazardous poisons and that the product has not undergone safety, quality or efficacy assessments as required by Australian law. There are growing concerns about the possible opioid content in Kamini, and ongoing tests are being conducted to determine the presence of substances such as codeine and morphine. Reports have previously linked Kamini to a rise in opioid dependence among users in Australia, leading many to seek treatment for withdrawal symptoms.

Recognize symptoms and seek help

Symptoms of lead poisoning can manifest as abdominal pain, nausea, headache, irritability and serious neurological effects, which may require hospitalization or even lead to death. Health officials are urging anyone who suspects they have consumed Kamini or is showing signs of lead poisoning to seek immediate medical attention.

(Read also: Japanese students hospitalized after eating chips made from Indian bhut jolokia)

Despite being illegal to supply in Australia, Kamini is still clandestinely imported and sold in some supermarkets and online platforms. The TGA works closely with the Australian Border Force to intercept shipments of these dangerous products.

In response to this alarming situation, SA Health has advised emergency departments and general practitioners to be vigilant for signs of lead poisoning in patients with relevant symptoms. The health department emphasizes that Kamini should never be ingested and reiterates the importance of seeking professional medical advice for those currently using the product.