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In the February issue of Prescrire International:
deaths from benfluorex (Mediator°) + new data on dextropropoxyphene

FREE DOWNLOAD The appetite suppressant  benfluorex (Mediator°) was withdrawn from the French market  in 2009. The drug is currently the subject of intense controversy, sparked by a study from French health authorities, the findings of which are reported here. Sharing the same page from Prescrire's "Adverse Effects" section, an update on dextropropoxyphene, another dangerous drug finally on the way out in France.
Full reviews available for free download.

Summary - Benfluorex: how many deaths?

  • In November 2009, benfluorex (ex Mediator°) was withdrawn from the French market, after 33 years.
  • Benfluorex, an appetite suppressant, is related to dexfenfluramine (ex Isomeride°), a drug carrying a known risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension and valve disease.
  • In November 2010 the French Health Products Safety Agency (Afssaps) reported the results of a study based on the French national health insurance database and estimating  that 500 deaths were attributable to benfluorex.
  • For more details, download the full review below.

Summary - Dextropropoxyphene and cardiac disorders: new data

  • In late 2010 the FDA released new data on propoxyphene, the US name of dextropropoxyphene.
  • This study provides a further reason for avoiding dextropropoxyphene before it is effectively removed from the French market.
  • For more details, download the full review below.

©Prescrire February 2011

"Benfluorex: how many deaths?", "Dextropropoxyphene and cardiac disorders: new data" Prescrire Int 2011; 20 (113): 45. (Pdf, free)
Dowload the full review