Japan MHLW decided at a meeting held on 27 Nov to strengthen the reporting system of adverse effects of cosmetics and quasi-drugs, in light of the Kanebo’s skin-whitening product scandal (see Chemlinked news on 5 Jul). From July, Kanebo issued an Asia-wide recall for whitening products containing the ingredient “Rhododendrol” due to adverse depigmentation reactions. On the back of this scandal the Japanese Government is updating its adverse effect reporting system.
For severe adverse reactions or cases that need long-term treatment, cosmetic companies in Japan will be required to report to the relevant authority within 15 days for the first case ever or 30 days for those already known before. The Pharmaceutical Affairs Law is to be amended accordingly to incorporate the new change and the draft will be released for public comments.
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