Erectile dysfunction drug recall

Two drugs - 'Get Stiff' and 'Maxi Mize' - have been recalled after the discovery they contained potentially harmful undeclared prescription medicines. Photo / Thinkstock

Health authorities have ordered the recall of two erectile dysfunction treatments after finding they contain potentially harmful, or even fatal, undeclared prescription medicines.

Director-General of Health Kevin Woods today announced 'Get Stiff' and 'Maxi Mize' contained prescription medicines which can pose a significant health risk.

Medsafe has already asked distributors and retailers to remove the products from their shelves and quarantine it.

Mr Woods advised consumers to stop taking the products immediately.

"Consumers should immediately stop taking these products and seek medical advice if they have felt unwell when taking any of these products or if they are also taking other medicines," he said.

The two erectile dysfunction treatments are promoted and sold in New Zealand by various retailers, including "adult" shops, and over the internet.

They are advertised as a way to enhance sexual performance or treat erectile dysfunction.
Tests completed by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research found both contained significant quantities of prescription drugs.

Get Stiff contained vardenafil, which can interfere with heart medications and can be harmful and even fatal if misused, the Ministry of Health said.

Maxi Mize contained hydroxyhomosildenafil and hydroxythiohomosildenafil, which have not been tested and approved as safe for use in New Zealand.

Mr Woods said Medsafe had found prescription medicines in 65 herbal supplements aimed at enhancing sexual performance since 2009.

"I advise consumers to treat with extreme caution products purportedly for the treatment of erectile dysfunction or to improve sexual performance offered for sale without a prescription. They should seek medical advice before using them."

Sponsors, distributors, retailers and importers are required to be aware of all the active ingredients contained in their products under the Medicines Act 1981.