In a sweeping operation, customs officials in Marseilles seized 13.9 tonnes of an unregulated, drug-laced supplement in November. The product, sold under names like Black Horse or Jaguar Power, has gained popularity among younger individuals, promising Viagra-like effects at a fraction of the cost. This development raises significant health concerns amidst its widespread availability in late-night convenience stores and online platforms.
The seized quantity equates to approximately 800,000 individual doses, illustrating the scale of the product's penetration into the French market. Imported primarily from Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey, this supplement contains powerful natural ingredients with effects similar to those of Viagra. However, the levels of sildenafil or tadalafil—the active ingredients in Viagra and Cialis—can vary significantly from dose to dose, posing serious health risks.
Despite warnings from health authorities, the product continues to be used by those seeking to emulate the performances seen on adult websites.
"A younger public are going for this in a big way, thinking they can match the performances to be found on porn sites." – A police officer
The allure of this product further grew last year, marking a record in seizures, yet it remains largely unregulated. The low cost—comparable to a five-pound pill at the chemist—makes it an attractive option for many, overshadowing its potential dangers.
Notably, in 2022, a man in Lyons underwent an emergency operation after suffering from penile necrosis, a severe condition linked to these supplements. Such incidents underscore the critical need for awareness and regulation as the product has been under surveillance since 2021.