Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH) Cases Handled Nationally. Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Until recently, only about one or two people per million had Primary Pulmonary Hypertension also known as pph , but the use of diet drugs drugs such as Pondimin (Fenfluramine-the first "Fen" in "Fen-Phen") and/or Redux (Dexfenfluramine) has created a new outbreak of this deadly condition. Becuase of the irresponsibily of pharmaceutical companies many people have been injured and diagnosed with PPH. Victims of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension may be entitled to large cash awards for their pain and suffering. PPH causes some of the cell lining of the lung's blood vessels to weaken and allow leakage. The leaking of blood out of the vessels causes the muscles that surround the blood vessels to constrict. This continuous constriction increases the pressure within the blood vessels. Gradually over time, this chokes off the flow of blood between the heart and lungs. The cutoff of blood will cause causing dizziness, exhaustion, fainting and may lead to heart failure. Effective treatment can allow a PPH victim to survive more than 10 years after diagnosis. What causes Primary Pulmonary Hypertension? Scientists do not know what exactly causes Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. Some researchers believe the blood vessels are particularly sensitive to certain internal or external factors, and constrict, or narrow, when exposed to these factors. There may be a genetic factor, an immune system factor, or sensitivity to drugs or other chemicals. Diet drugs present a possible cause Recently, an association between some PPH cases and the serotonin-effecting appetite suppressants fenfluramine (Pondimin) and dexfenfluramine (Redux) has been established. A long term study in Europe showed that out of 95 cases, 30 had taked one of these appetite suppressants: dexfenfluramine (Redux), fenfluramine (Pondimin), diethylpropion (Tenuate), clobenzorex, fenproporex, or phenmetrazine. Of the 30 cases, 18 had used them more than three months. If you have take a Fen-phen, Redux or another related diet drug and have Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, our we will put you in contact with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension attorney best suited to your case. Diagnosis of PPH: Cardiac Catheterization A method of detecting PPH is using a catheter. A hollow, flexible tube for insertion into a body cavity, duct, or vessel. The tube extends into the heart to measure blood pressure. Unlike the echnocardiogram, which is harmless and not risky, there is some risk associated with the catheterization. Exercising may have the effect of increasing the ability of a cardiac catheter to detect PPH. Treatment may involve use of Flolan and Calcium Channel Blocking Drugs - to improve the heart's ability to pump blood supplemental oxygen, Anticoagulants - decrease the tendency of the blood to clot and permit blood to flow more freely, Diuretics - decrease the amount of fluid in the body and reduce the amount of work the heart has to do drugs. Another treatment available is a lung transplant. Your Name Address  City, State, Zip Phone Number(s)  Email Address  Do you have PPH? Did you take a diet drug? Informal Case Description Submit by Pressing below Home Page Contact a lawyer via our Massachusetts-Lawyers.com here.