Phenylpropanolamine Recall

Phenylpropanolamine (PPA), or phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride, is an ingredient that was used (prior to the FDA's November 2000 recall) in many over-the-counter cold medications as a decongestant, and in over-the-counter (OTC) diet drugs as an appetite suppressant.

Research from the Yale University School of Medicine has revealed that phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride is associated with an increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke in women. Hemorrhagic stroke is characterized by bleeding in the brain. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke while taking a drug containing PPA is very low, experts believe the risks far outweigh the benefits of this drug.

FDA Recall

In November 2000, the FDA issued a public health warning to consumers, warning them of the risk of hemorrhagic stroke associated with phenylpropanolamine and advising them to discontinue the use of medications that contain it. In addition, the FDA asked drug manufacturers to discontinue the marketing and sales of OTC medications that contained PPA. Drug stores and grocery chains across the nation pulled these drugs from their shelves.

Drugs Containing PPA

The following is a short list of OTC medications that contain PPA:

• Acutrim
• Dexatrim
• Dimetapp
• Comtrex
• Alka Seltzer Plus
• Robitussin
• Triaminic
• Contac

Note: This list is incomplete. In order to determine if an over-the-counter medication contains PPA, check the label or speak with a pharmacist.

If you or a loved one has suffered a PPA injury, contact a PPA attorney for information specific to your case.