Fen-phen is the popular name for a combination of two weight-loss drugs that were
prescribed by doctors to control hunger. The “fen” refers to either fenfluramine
or dexfenfluramine, which was marketed under the brand names Pondamin® and Redux®.
The “phen” refers to phentermine. Like many other weight-loss products, these drugs
acted as mild stimulants, increasing serotonin levels in the brain. This caused
the patient to feel full instead of hungry.
The “fen” portion of fen-phen has since been linked to two rare cardiopulmonary
conditions. Heart valve damage occurred in a high percentage of long-term fen-phen
users. Patients who used fen-phen for any length of time were at increased risk
for primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), which causes the blood vessels in the
lungs to constrict, raising blood pressure in the pulmonary artery. Both heart valve
damage and PPH are difficult to diagnose and treat, but can result in heart failure
and death.
In 1997, the FDA called for label changes, warning consumers of potential heart
problems from long-term use. Soon thereafter, the FDA asked that the makers of the
“fen” drugs Pondimin® (fenfluramine) and Redux® (dexfenfluramine) withdraw the drugs
from the market. The “phen” component remains available, because it was not linked
to increased risk of cardiopulmonary side effects.
While heart valve damage and disease can be difficult to diagnose, it can present
as a heart murmur that did not exist before, and may cause fatigue as the heart
must work harder. Symptoms of PPH include the following:
- Excessive fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Blue lips
- Swollen ankles
While these drugs were taken off the market long ago, their effects can linger and
worsen over time. If you or a loved one took fen-phen, contact a John Bales Florida
drug injury lawyer today. Complete a FREE Online Consultation Form
or call us toll free 1-800-CALL JOHN (1-800-225-5564) 24 hours,
7 days a week.
Do not discontinue taking any medications without first consulting your physician.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute
medical advice and should not be viewed as such. For medical advice, you should
always consult with your physician.
Pondimin® and Redux® are registered trademarks of Interneuron Pharmaceuticals. The
reference to the registered trademarks of Interneuron Pharmaceuticals is used here
only for the purpose of identifying the product in question.
This law firm is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or associated with Interneuron
Pharmaceuticals or the FDA.