Heart Valve Damage

Fen-Phen can cause damage to the aortic and mitral valves of the heart. Damage to these valves causes regurgitation, a condition in which oxygenated blood flows back into the heart rather than out to the rest of the body. This condition can be corrected through medication or valvoplasty - a surgery to repair or replace the damaged valves.

Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)

Fen-Phen has been linked to an increased risk for primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH), a condition characterized by the narrowing of the blood vessels of the lungs. This causes high blood pressure, which can eventually lead to heart failure. Symptoms of PPH include:

• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
• Dizziness, weakness, fainting spells
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Ankle swelling

PPH can be treated with medication to stop the progression of the disease. Many patients take vasodilators to enlarge the blood vessels in the lungs or anti-coagulants to reduce the risk of developing blood clots. Severe PPH may require a heart-lung transplant.

Neuropsychological Damage

It is difficult to diagnose neuropsychological damage resulting from the use of Fen-Phen. If patients are experiencing symptoms such as memory loss, mood swings, behavioral changes, depression, or psychotic breakdowns, a neurological specialist should be consulted.

If you or someone you know has suffered injuries as a result of Fen Phen, contact an attorney to discuss your legal rights.

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