The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked manufacturers to voluntarily recall all products containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA) because of the risk of strokes triggered by bleeding in the brain. PPA is a decongestant found in a number of over-the-counter and prescription cough and cold medications and weight loss products. Eight years ago, the FDA directed that a study be conducted to evaluate the risks of hemorrhagic stroke from PPA. The results of the study prompted the FDA to declare PPA unsafe and issue a voluntary recall of products containing PPA until an official ban on the product can be enacted. In a statement issued by the FDA, they stated "Although this risk of hemorrhagic stroke is very low, FDA has significant concerns because of the ... irreversible outcome and the inability to predict who is at risk." Because this is a voluntary recall, not all stores have pulled these products from their shelves. At Taos Pharmacy, we have checked our stock and pulled these products, but everyone should check labels to be sure to avoid them.

Decongestants are used to relieve the runny nose associated with colds or allergies. PPA is also used as an appetite suppressant. The other most commonly used decongestant, pseudoephedrine, was not implicated. Antihistamines, also commonly used to relieve congestion or runny nose, have not exhibited these risks. However, antihistamines generally cause significant drowsiness and drug interactions, limiting their usefulness. Well-known brands that contain PPA and should be avoided include:

Acutrim, Alka-Seltzer Plus, Comtrex, Contac, Dexatrim, Dimetapp, Naldecon DX, and Triaminic. (This is a partial list only—you should read product labels to check for phenylpropanolamine).

In a separate statement, the FDA warned that the herbal stimulant ephedra (found in Ma Huang) increases the risk of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and heart attack. The risk is significantly increased when ephedra is combined with caffeine. Ma Huang is commonly used for weight loss and energy enhancement.

Taos Pharmacy strives to stay abreast of the latest in healthcare information to help you stay safe and healthy. When you shop at Taos Pharmacy, you can count on advice from the pharmacist regarding over-the-counter medications, herbal products, nutritional supplements, and prescription medications.

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