Health authorities in An Giang Province prohibited the sale of a health supplement that contains potentially toxic substances.

The delta province's Health Department said it has issued a statement banning sales of Senzation Double Joint Care.

Tests by local inspectors showed that the product contains Piroxicam a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug whose use can result in gastrointestinal toxicity, tinnitus, dizziness, headache, rash, and pruritus; and Betamethason a potent glucocorticoid steroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties.

Both substances require a doctor's prescription for use.

Health officials said the product is distributed by the Ho Chi Minh City-based firm Thanh Vinh Commerce, Service, Export and Import, Ltd.

Senzation Double Joint Care was seen recently at local phamarcies, priced at VND980,000 (US$50) for a box of 30 tablets.

The controversial medicine is advertised as being derived entirely from natural plants and capable of easing arthralgia and gout after only two days of use.