Dangerous Drugs - PPA

Phenylpropanolamine, or PPA, is a chemical that was used as the active ingredient in a variety of over-the-counter and prescription diet drugs, nasal decongestants, and cough medications including: Dexatrim, Acutrim, Robitussin, Comtrex, Triaminic and Tavist D. In 1990, U.S. consumers purchased over 6 billion doses of medications containing PPA.

In November 2000, U.S. regulators moved to take PPA off the consumer market due to the serious side effects presented by the drug. The Food and Drug Administration formally asked all drug companies to voluntarily cease marketing all products containing PPA. While research pointed to a higher risk for hemorrhagic strokes, or bleeding of the brain, in women, the FDA cautioned that men were also at risk. The strokes occurred within three days after people used the products.

Since 2003, the FDA has been helping companies reformulate their products away from use of the dangerous drug. Many companies voluntarily did so immediately after learning of PPA's risks, and for those that are less compliant, the FDA has discussed legal mandates to require them to switch over.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, illness or death, that seems to have been someone else's fault, call VanDerGinst Law at 1-866-843-7367 or click here for a FREE online case evaluation. The initial consultation is free of charge. If we agree to handle your injury case, we will work on a contingency fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if, and when, there is a money recovery for you. In many cases a lawsuit must be filed before an applicable expiration date, known as a statute of limitations. So please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.