MSNBC reported this weekend that the FDA is expected to ban a popular ingredient found in many over-the-counter drugs today due to an increased risk found associated with often deadly hemorrhagic strokes.
The ingredient is called Phenylpropanolamine and according to the report, is “one of the oldest and most widely used ingredients in decongestants and diet pills.”
What is a Hemorrhagic Stroke?
Hemorrhagic strokes, also known as bleeding in the brain, are the least common type of stroke. According to the report, they often are deadly and can leave survivors disabled.
According to the article, FDA records show 44 cases of hemorrhagic stroke among users of phenylpropanolamine in the past 30 years. A study funded by an association that represents drug manufacturers that use the ingredient, found a slightly increased stroke risk for young women but contends the study was flawed, according to the report.
According to the article, a stroke survivor had the following to say: “we believe that over-the-counter medications are safe, and they aren’t necessarily.” She went on to say that, “this is really strong medicine. This almost killed me.”
Check out the following article to learn more about Phenylpropanolamine and what OTC drugs it is found in.
Planet Chiropractic: More On Phenylpropanolamine
When choosing to take an over the counter medication, shouldn’t the benefits outweigh the risks?
MSNBC: FDA to ban ingredient in cold drugs
planetc1.com-news @ 5:31 am | Article ID: 973517461
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