Dr. Schilz explains that people who used dexfenfluramine and phentermine, commonly referred to as fen-phen, increased their risk of developing the disease by about 23 times. Although fen-phen was recalled late last year by the FDA, physicians worry that people may still be using the suppressants or may have a latent onset of the disease. People may not be aware that they have the disease until they become short winded doing common things, such as climbing stairs. The diagnosis is supported by an abnormal echocardiogram of the heart which provides a graphic picture of the movements of the structures of the heart and its blood flow. This noninvasive test provides an estimation of the pressure in the arteries of the lung.
Confirmation usually requires direct measurement of blood pressure during a heart catheterization.
Mrs. Pinney, who had no symptoms of the disease, learned of it when she was being followed for chronic liver disease. When Mrs. Pinney learned that she might be a candidate for prostacylin, she was eager to give it a try. After I watched the video and took part in the training, I knew I could do this. Although she admits it is an enormous undertaking, mixing the drugs, keeping them cool and making sure you have a supply that is on ice if you are leaving the house, she says it is all worth it. I get out every day.