February 21, 2005

Hangover Prevention Pill

Honourable Ujjal Dosanjh, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health
Government of Canada
Ottawa, ON

Dear Minister:

A hangover prevention pill, originally developed for the KGB, is being sold in the U.S. and Britain, and on the Internet. This “natural dietary supplement” is named RU-21; a new version is called RU-21 Red. In addition, a Hangover Prevention Formula (HPF™) made from the Prickly Pear Cactus is being promoted out of California as an on-line network marketing scheme.

RU-21 Red officially claims to help prevent long-term diseases associated with moderate alcohol intake by helping the body eliminate the toxic byproducts of alcohol metabolism. However, we are concerned that its main claim to fame is that it prolongs drunkenness and enhances intoxication. It is being marketed as a party drug to avoid the nasty aftermath of drinking too much; to support this positioning, we understand the company sponsors concerts and pop groups.

Alcohol intoxication is implicated in a variety of serious harms, including motor vehicle crashes and falls, two leading causes of unintentional death and injury in this country. Any substance that encourages excessive drinking with the promise of increased intoxication and no after-effects is obviously of concern from a safety perspective.

What is the status of these supplements in Canada? Has Health Canada assessed them? Is their import and sale allowed?

Sincerely,

Emile-J. Therien
President, Canada Safety Council

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