Citizen Fined NT$30,000 for Unlicensed Online Sale of Unregistered Nosebleed-Stopping Cotton

(CNA, Kaohsiung, May 20, by reporter Lin Hsin-Lien) The Kaohsiung City Department of Health recently investigated and fined a citizen NT$30,000 for the first-time offense of selling unregistered "medical cotton" online. The department ordered the immediate removal of the product from sale and required an application for inspection and registration, stating that medical cotton is classified as a medical device subject to strict regulations. In a press release today, the Kaohsiung City Government Department of Health stated that a resident in Luzhu District had purchased a cotton product from Japan. Although the original Japanese manufacturer claimed it was not a medical device, an examination of the product's packaging and manual revealed clear indications of its use for "stopping nosebleeds" and "absorbing nasal mucus," signifying a medical purpose of absorbing bodily fluids. The Health Bureau pointed out that after a review of the product's description, use, and ingredients by the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), the product was classified under the J.5300 "medical absorbent fiber" category of medical devices. By law, it falls under the scope of medical device management and must complete inspection and registration before it can be sold. The Health Bureau explained that "medical absorbent fiber" refers to devices made from cotton or synthetic fibers for medical purposes, such as applying medication to a patient's body surface or absorbing small amounts of bodily fluids. Products like cotton balls, cotton pads, or cotton swabs are considered medical devices if their intended use involves wound care or fluid absorption. If the cotton is only for general cleaning or cosmetic use, it is not regulated as a medical device. The Health Bureau reminds the public that everyday items like cotton, cotton swabs, adhesive bandages (OK-Bands), and masks may fall under the scope of medical device management if their packaging and manuals list medical uses or descriptions. These are subject to strict regulations, and both businesses and the public should confirm the relevant laws. (Editor: Li Heng-Shan)