Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) Lawyers

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is a decongestant that works by constricting blood vessels in your body. Constricting the blood vessels in your nose, sinuses, and chest allows drainage in those areas and decreases congestion.

PPA is used to treat the congestion associated with hay fever, allergies, sinus irritation, and the common cold. It also decreases appetite and is used in some diet aids. PPA, in fact, was the active ingredient in a large number of prescription and over the counter nasal decongestants, cough medications, and diet drugs, including:

In May 2000, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received results of a study conducted at the Yale School of Medicine that revealed an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding within the brain) in those who were taking PPA. In those who suffered from strokes, the strokes occurred within three days after they took a product containing PPA.

The overall risk of hemorrhagic stroke was low, but the FDA became concerned because of the seriousness of strokes and because of the inability to predict who is at risk. And although the Yale study's research pointed to a higher risk of hemorrhagic strokes in women, it showed that men were also at risk.

The FDA continued receiving reports of hemorrhagic stroke associated with PPA use, so it concluded that the risks of using PPA outweighed the benefits. The FDA recommended that consumers no longer use products containing PPA and, in November 2000, U.S. regulators began taking PPA off the market.

Some argue that the FDA overreacted in recommending that PPA be recalled. And although PPA is now generally no longer available in the US, it is still an active ingredient in products and drugs sold abroad. Warning signs that someone may be experiencing the side effects of PPA after taking it include:

If any of the following more serious symptoms are experienced, seek medical attention immediately:

• allergic reaction, including difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, hives, and/or swelling of the tongue, face, or lips
• seizure
• unusual behavior
• hallucinations
• fast or irregular heartbeat

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of taking PPA or a product containing PPA, you may be entitled to compensation. To find out, contact an experienced pharmaceutical injury attorney.