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Once hailed a miracle pill to promote weight loss, Fen-Phen is actually a combination of two drugs: Fenfluramine (Fen) and Phentermine (phen). These two drugs were both designed to induce weight loss and were fairly successful; however, in combination it became apparent that the weight loss could be dramatically increased, spelling joy for obese and severely overweight people all over the country. So popular was this drug, that in 1996 nearly twenty million prescriptions were issued for Fen-Phen.
If so, you may have a possible legal case against the manufacturer of the potentially dangerous drug or medical product. Simply fill out the short form below and an experienced legal expert will contact you as soon as possible!
It therefore came as both a shock and a disappointment to millions when, in July 1997, the FDA issued a statement that warned of the dangers of taking Fen-Phen. This was based upon studies carried out at the Mayo Clinic, and the results were published in the New England Journal of Medicine a couple of months later. Finally, in September 1997, Fen-Phen was recalled from the US market amidst a flurry of controversy and concern.
So, what was all the fuss relating to this drug? Tests had been performed, which showed that Fen-Phen contributed to an increased risk of heart valve problems. The increased risk was quite significant in studies carried out. More tests showed that the usage of Fen-Phen for longer than a three-month period vastly increased the chances of a condition known as primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) a potentially deadly and incurable heart condition.
It was found that the manufacturer of Fen-Phen, American Home Products, had known all about the links of their drug with PPH. However, no warning had been listed on the labelling of the drug, and the FDA even found the drug’s manufacturer guilty of miscoding PPH reports. An FDA official that was initially involved with reviewing Fen-Phen stated that he had suspected dangers all along, but that the drug company covered up the potential risks to conceal them.
In January 2002 a nationwide class action settlement was agreed and finalised with the manufacturer of Fen-Phen. Those that had been affected by Fen-Phen in any way were advised to take legal action to claim compensation for their injuries, financial losses through medical treatment, and pain or suffering. Anyone suffering from the effects of Fen-Phen today is also advised to contact a Fen-Phen lawyer to discuss filing a lawsuit.
A drug litigation lawyer can offer some valuable advice with regards to filing for compensation, so if you have suffered any ill effects from this medication you can find out more about making your claim from an experienced legal professional. By booking a free initial consultation with one of these Fen-Phen lawyers, you can discuss the fact and circumstances surrounding your case, and the lawyer can offer suggestions as to the best course of action as well as on the chances of success.
Your lawyer can also offer advice on whether to file a class action lawsuit or go for an individual claim, again based on your circumstances and the strength of your case. An experienced Fen-Phen lawyer will have dealt with many cases such as yours, and will therefore be able to offer accurate advice with regards to the potential success of your claim, and how to maximize on your chances of a successful claim.
It is important to seek legal advice as quickly as possible to ensure that you get your claim in within the statutes of limitation, which can differ from one state to another. You should also see your doctor as soon as you feel any ill effects that could be attributed to Fen-Phen, as any medical evidence to back up your case can help both you and your lawyer to file a successful lawsuit.