Propulsid

Propulsid, a popular medication prescribed to patients suffering from severe nighttime heartburn, was approved for treatment in adults in July 1993. It controls and relieves the symptoms of heartburn by moving contents through the stomach, reducing exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid.

Patients taking Propulsid have experienced cases of serious heart rhythm disorders, cardiac arrest and even sudden death. In some cases, nervous system side effects have been reported including headaches, dizziness and fatigue. In rare cases, seizures have been reported. Since its introduction, the FDA has already received 341 reports of serious heart problems including 80 deaths. On July 14, 2000 the makers of Propulsid removed the drug from the market.

The most harmful reactions to Propulsid have occurred in patients who were taking certain medications or who have other medical conditions that increased their risk. Propulsid should not be used with anti-allergy, anti-angina, anti-arrhythmics (irregular heart rhythm), antibiotics, anti-depressants, anti-fungals, anti-nausea, anti-psychotics and protease inhibitors (anti-HIV infection). It is also advised that patients with the following conditions not take Propulsid: history of irregular heartbeats, abnormal ECG or EKG, heart disease, kidney disease, lung disease, low blood levels of potassium, calcium or magnesium, eating disorders, dehydration or persistent vomiting.

Propulsid is approved for adult use only, but many infants and premature babies were given Propulsid to treat colic. Of the 80 Propulsid related deaths known by the FDA, 11 were children. The FDA knows of 20 other children who suffered nonfatal heart irregularities.

If you have experienced any of the warning signs listed below while taking Propulsid, it's important to discuss these with your doctor immediately.

• Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Unusual weakness or tiredness
• Vomiting

If you were prescribed and took Propulsid for any period of time you should consult your physician to determine whether there are signs of serious heart problems. Your doctor will then determine the next step medically to help you and discuss alternative treatments.

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