['Weight reduction preparations' from Thailand: unexpected complication for the traveller]. / 'Afslankmiddelen' uit Thailand: onverwachte reizigerszorg na terugkeer.

Two series of Thai 'slimming agents' purchased apparently without a medical consultation or prescription (one directly in Thailand and the other one indirectly in the Netherlands) were submitted for chemical analysis. Fenfluramine and diazepam were present in both series. One series also yielded phenolphtalein and vitamin B substances, while sennosides were found in the other series. Apparently travellers may unwittingly take along potent medicines when they return from far countries.

[Dexamethasone in a non-registered ointment from the Far East]. / Dexamethason in een niet-geregistreerde crème uit het Verre Oosten.

The Oriental cream Piyan Ping 999 has been used in the Netherlands as an unlicensed product. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of dexamethasone and dexamethasone-21-acetate in pharmacologically relevant concentrations. It was prescribed for 2 children; the 3-year-old girl had meanwhile developed bruises and small, poorly healing wounds.