Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) is characterized by a significant spike in pressure within the pulmonary artery. While the nature of this adverse cardiac phenomena remains ambiguous, it is relatively uncommon. Unfortunately, the use of Fen Phen may increase the rate in which people develop this severe, life-threatening condition. Recent studies suggest that Fen Phen may contribute to the development of PPH by causing differential expression of genes in certain pathways and biological processes that are critical to the normal functions of pulmonary arteries.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Fen Phen, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Fen Phen Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Lawsuit Overview
Fen Phen was an anti-obesity treatment that combined two anorectic drugs, fenfluramine and phentermine, to assist in the significant loss of weight. These distinct drugs were market by American Home Products, now known as Wyeth. Following mandatory regulatory actions, Fen Phen gained the approval of the FDA over two decades ago. However, it was not until the early 90s that the revolutionary weight loss supplement reached its pinnacle.
Fen Phen was the product of two medications that had already established themselves in the global market. Fenfluramine, the first of such drugs, has a unique mechanism of action that promotes the release of serotonin. Though ambiguous in nature, serotonin is believed to be linked to several brain functions, including that of satiety. Therefore, by releasing serotonin, fenfluramine promotes the stimulation of neurotransmitters that can potentially affect appetite.
The increased ratio of serotonin had a tendency to affect other aspects of an individual’s mood. Accordingly, developers incorporated an additional drug to counteract the corresponding mood swings. Researchers then added phentermine, a stimulant tasked with counter-balancing the negative effects of fenfluramine. By combining fenfluramine and phentermine, developers established the molecular entity that we know as Fen Phen.
Unfortunately, evidence suggests that fenfluramine may be responsible for catastrophic side effects that have the potential to go undetected for many years. According to a study published in the Official Journal of the Pulmonary Vascular Research Institute, fenfluramine may contribute to the pathogenesis of PPH through causing differential expression of genes in certain pathways and biological processes that are critical to the normal functions of pulmonary arteries.
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
Primary pulmonary hypertension, otherwise known as pulmonary atrial hypertension, is characterized by a significant rise in the blood pressure within the pulmonary artery. While the reasoning for this condition remains ambiguous, research has indicted that Fen Phen may be responsible. The increased blood pressure makes it difficult for the heart to transport oxygenated blood to the rest of the body, resulting in several life-threatening complications. If PPH is left untreated, the heart muscles weaken and may eventually fail.
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Side Effects
The following is a comprehensive list of the symptoms associated with PPH:
Difficulty breathing
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Fainting
Lightheadedness
Color change in hands
Swelling of the hands and feet
An increase in the pulmonic second heart sound
Enlargement of the main pulmonary artery
Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Complications
Severe cases of this cardiac condition witness the heart exert itself while it attempts to pump a sufficient amount of blood to the rest of the body. The increased pressure, however, impedes the circulation and makes it difficult for the heart to pump oxygenated blood to the rest of the body. The resulting lack of oxygen may lead to several fatal complications including organ failure. More often than not, the right side of the heart becomes overworked and eventually fails, leading to death. One study showed that 30% of untreated PPH patients died within 3 years of diagnosis.
Do I Have a Fen Phen Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in Fen Phen lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Fen Phen, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.