Florida Fen-Phen Attorneys

Harmful Drug Attorneys At Zimmerman & Frachtman

Fen Phen – Heart Valve Leaks – Primary Hypertension

Fen Phen, a weight loss drug recalled in 1997, has been highlighted as having side effects that can cause a variety of health problems. People have taken Fen Phen are at least 30% more likely to develop heart conditions. Studies have shown, the drug’s side effects are serious, and include heart valve leaks, primary hypertension (PPH), and death. PPH can suddenly cause high blood pressure for no reason, which can cause the heart to eventually fail if not treated. People experiencing PPH will have many symptoms such as shortness of breath, fainting, and a change of color in the hands.

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Fen Phen Lawsuits
There have been a large amount of legal claims demanding compensation for the victims. Wyeth, the maker of Fen Phen, has paid over $20 billion to these victims. In 2012, Pfizer attempted to throw out new lawsuits, but the attempt failed. New lawsuits continue to surface by victims who claim to have developed pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) as a result of taking Fen Phen. Because the serious effects of Fen Phen may not appear until many years later, some courts have allowed plaintiffs to file a lawsuit, regardless of the normal state-based statues of limitations. In general, each state has limitations to the amount of time people can bring a lawsuit against manufacturers.

The History and Details of Fen Phen
America values outward appearances, but people often sacrifice their health, because they lead busy lifestyles. Therefore, dietary supplements have become popular over the last 30 years. It is unfortunate that these supposedly “miracle drugs” have sometimes been found to hurt the overall health of people because of serious side effects.

Fen Phen affects serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin regulates sensory perception, mood, and appetite. It decreases hunger and food cravings. High serotonin levels can cause a person to have an overly satisfied feeling, and low levels have negative effects, such as depression.

Products Containing Fen Phen
The following products containing Fen Phen have been manufactured over the years:

• Redux or Dexfenfluramine
• Phentermine
• Pondimin or Fenfluramine

Though the recall happened in 1997, lawsuits still arise here and there. If you have any questions concerning Fen Phen and your rights, you can still contact our Florida medical malpractice law firm for a free consultation to go over your concerns.

Contact us online or call (954) 504-6577 to learn more during a free, confidential consultation.