Please read important information about risks associated with Ayurvedic medicines and opium products “doda” and “afeem” that may be contaminated with heavy metals, specifically lead.
Fraser Health is issuing a Public Service Announcement to the general public and to South Asian populations through culturally-specific channels warning about risks associated with Ayurvedic medicines and opium products “doda” and “afeem” that may be contaminated with heavy metals, specifically lead. The PSA follows two recent cases within the Fraser Health region in 2023/2024 of lead poisoning related to opium-containing products. These opium-containing products are used by some South Asian populations and are prepared directly from the poppy plant. They come as a powder and usually dissolved in liquid and consumed orally, although other preparations may be possible, including tablets. Other imported and/or unregistered Ayurvedic health products have been previously found to contain high levels of lead, mercury, and other contaminants.
Recommendations:
If patients present with symptoms or concerns related to lead poisoning, consider asking about relevant exposures to lead, including use of Ayurvedic medicines and opium products (doda, afeem). Consider testing the patient for lead through blood testing.
In the context of substance use history, if it is identified that patients use opium products like doda or afeem, consider investigating for lead poisoning in addition to usual care.
Please advise patients to hold onto the substance if they can safely do so as Public Health may collect samples for lead contamination testing if available.
If patients wish to continue using natural health products but are looking for alternatives to previously used products, they can be counseled to seek out domestically sold retail products registered with Health Canada, labelled with a Natural Product Number (NPN). Such products are subject to regulatory requirements, including traceability.
The British Columbia Drug and Poison Information Centre can be reached for support in the management of suspected intoxication or poisoning, by calling 604-682-5050 or 1-800-567-8911 (available 24 hours).