The Sri Lanka College of Dermatologists (SLCD) urged the public to use skincare creams that have been approved by the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), and not to use 'Glutathione' injections.
Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (5), SLCD Skincare and Cosmetic Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Nayani Madarasingha said that the Glutathione injection has not been approved in any country including Sri Lanka. “It is a molecule commonly used in treatments for side effects suffered by cancer patients. The drug itself caused severe, concerning side effects. It has also not been scientifically proven that it can whiten the skin. It can lead to serious long term side effects like allergies, cancers, kidney disorders, liver disorders, and nervous disorders,” she opined. Furthermore, she claimed that the Glutathione injection as well as skincare creams (creams which have not been approved by the NMRA) can cause redness and swelling (skin irritation and inflammation), itching, and a burning or stinging sensation. “The usage of such artificial cosmetics can damage skin cells and the skin may also become darker. Glutathione injections were banned in Sri Lanka nearly two years ago by the NMRA”.
A ‘skin whitening’ racket in Rajagiriya involving the administration of Glutathione was discovered on 4 June. Accordingly, a ‘luxury’ salon in Rajagiriya with a high profile clientele of actresses and other members of the society, was raided after information of another Glutathione racket was received. Upon inspection of the premise, the Food and Drug Inspectors who were also involved in the crackdown seized a stock of vials of ‘Glutathione’, both used and unused, valued at around Rs. 5 million. It was revealed that 15 different kinds of the banned drug in question were found at the salon.
Earlier, on 25 April, another such racket was discovered in Kottawa, where a doctor was found to have administered the injection as part of an unsafe skin whitening treatment. Accordingly, upon further questioning of the doctor following his arrest by the Food and Drug Inspectors, he had revealed that he does not, in fact, possess any knowledge on vaccines and their administration. Investigations carried out at the arrestee’s residence also led to the discovery of a stash of ‘Glutathione’ vials, both used and unused.