Propulsid
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a stern warning that the popular heartburn drug, Propulsid, can cause dangerous irregular heartbeats and even sudden death. Click on FAQ on Arrhythmia for more information. The FDA has further warned that Propulsid should not be taken with certain other medications. Therefore, elderly persons should be especially cautious about using the drug since many use multiple medications or have existing medical conditions, placing them at high risk for problems with Propulsid. If you have experienced any of the warning signs listed below while taking Propulsid, you should discuss these with your doctor immediately:
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Unusual weakness or tiredness
- Vomiting
After years of escalating fatalities and pressure from the FDA, Janssen Pharmaceutical Inc., the manufacturer, announced that it would voluntarily stop marketing Propulsid in the United States beginning July 14, 2000.