The Inspectorate of Public Health, Social development and Labour (VSA) is warning consumers to stop using Soladek, a vitamin-solution product marketed by Indo Pharma, S.A., of the Dominican Republic, because the product may contain dangerously high levels of vitamins A and D. Consumers who are in possession of Soladek should stop using the product immediately.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently received information that tested samples of Soladek contained levels of vitamin A and vitamin D that were many times the recommended daily allowances for these vitamins. Intake of excessively high levels of these vitamins poses a risk to human health.
The product is sold in a box labeled in Spanish and containing a vial of the solution.
Soladek cannot currently be marketed legally on Sint Maarten because the law prohibits the sale of products claiming to treat disease conditions without previous evaluation and approval.
Soladek was among some of the products confiscated on February 10th 2011 by the Inspectorate of Public Health, Social development and Labour which leads the Inspectorate to conclude that Soladek may be available illegally on Sint Maarten.
Symptoms of vitamin D toxicity include weakness, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, changes in mental status, increased blood pressure, abnormal heart rate or rhythm, kidney damage, and coma.
Symptoms of vitamin A toxicity include anemia, anorexia, alopecia, joint pain, bone weakness, bulging eyes, liver abnormalities, and birth defects.
Any consumers who have been using Soladek and are experiencing any of the above symptoms should see a doctor immediately.
Soladek is marketed with claims that the product treats "hypo and avitaminosis, rickets, growth, dentition, lactation, fractures, infection, convalescence, protection and regeneration of certain epithelium (bronchial, glandular, ocular, cutaneous), corticotherapy, aging and pregnancy."
Persons who would like to report or file a complaint, they can pass by the Inspectorates Office located at Kanaal Steeg #1 (above Diamond Casino which is located across from the RBTT Bank) between 8.00am – 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 5.00pm to file a complaint or to provide information. You can also call 542-2078, 542-2058, 542-3580, fax 542-2936 or email: inspectorate.vsa@sintmaartengov.org