The Analytical Toxicology Laboratory of the Unicamp Toxicological Information and Assistance Center (CIATox) analyzed three samples of the product popularly known as “melzinho do amor”. Although the packaging indicates a 100% natural composition, the presence of two drugs of synthetic origin used to treat erectile dysfunction was detected. Without proper prescription and administered in combination, the substances can cause serious side effects, and even risk of death. The sale of the products is prohibited, but it is still advertised as a sexual stimulant and sold in street shops and online stores.
The “honey of love” is sold in sachet format. On the packaging, the composition records substances such as: coffee, caviar extract, ginseng, apple, ginger, cinnamon, Malaysian honey and Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia). However, the CIATox analysis also detected Sildenafil and Tadalafil, drugs found in erectile dysfunction medications, sold only with a doctor's prescription.
The use of the active ingredients of Sildenafil and Tadalafil, highlights the executive coordinator of CIATox, José Luiz Costa, depends on prior medical evaluation, especially for people who suffer from health problems, such as heart disease and uncontrolled hypertension. The non-prescription use of these drugs can cause serious unwanted effects, such as prolonged priapism (a long and painful erection with a risk of necrosis of the penis) and irreversible damage to the limb. For women with health problems, such as heart disease, there are also risks.
In case of concomitant intake with alcohol or other drugs, there is a risk of intensifying side effects, such as dizziness, hypotension and headaches. In heart disease patients, Sildenafil and Tadalafil can cause severe, potentially fatal, hypotension.
“When a person takes a recommended medication, the doctor knows what their health problems are. The risk of adverse effects exists, but is controlled. Someone who uses these medications on their own may be putting their health at risk without knowing it. Despite the label saying that the composition contains only plant extracts, there is nothing natural about them,” he says.
José Luiz points out that the analysis sought to compare the concentrations of Sildenafil and Tadalafil present in the sachets with the concentrations indicated in medical treatments. The results showed higher concentrations in one sample and lower concentrations in another. In one of the analyzes the two substances were found in combination, which may increase the risk of side effects.
The three samples analyzed by CIATox refer to the products “Power Honey - vitality and performance” (yellow), “Power Honey - vitality and performance” (pink) and “Alibaba Power Honey – with Caviar, Coffee and Longhal Ali Powder”.
Sale of the product is prohibited by Anvisa
The sale of the product known as “melzinho do amor” has been prohibited by the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) since May 27, 2021, through Resolution 2.133. The samples were not registered with the agency or proof of their real composition. Its commercialization is considered a heinous crime. Still, it is possible to find the products in street shops, on websites and in sex shops.
Alert to emergency services
CIATox suggests that the Emergency Services remain alert to cases of ingestion of these products, and that they report them to the Health Surveillance and the nearest Toxicological Information and Assistance Center. In cases of patients suspected of abusing these substances, CIATox is available to assist in laboratory diagnosis through analysis of biological fluids or consumed products.
“It is worth highlighting that this was a pharmacovigilance action by CIATox. We have not had cases of poisoning here, but if care is not taken and these warnings are not issued, they may appear, whether in Campinas or in another municipality in Brazil”, warns José Luiz.
CIATox operates 24 hours a day, every day of the week. For questions and guidance, the telephone number is 19 3521755
