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Fen-Phen -- Frequently Asked
Questions |
Important Notice: Effective November 1, 2002, our firm will no longer be able to assist consumers in making a claim for damages after taking these diet drugs. Please
click here to see more information.
What are Pondimin, Redux and Fen-Phen?
Pondimin (also known as fenfluramine), and Redux (also known as dexfenfluramine), are prescription diet drugs that were distributed through doctors and weight loss clinics. When Pondimin and/or Redux were taken in combination with
Phentermine, it was popularly referred to as
Fen-Phen.
Can I file a claim if I have not had any outward symptoms of heart valve abnormalities or seen a physician regarding heart valve problems?
Yes. The majority people who have taken either of these drugs are not aware of the problems associated with their heart. It is not necessary that you have seen a physician or received any treatment in order to be eligible to file a claim. In order to file a claim you will need to have an echocardiogram and have it reviewed by a Board Certified Cardiologist to determine if you have suffered any heart valve injuries and to what extent if any they may have heart valve problems.
Did I have to take Pondimin or Redux in combination with Phentermine in order to have a claim?
No. Although that is how it was administered to many people, it is not necessary to have taken both drugs to have suffered injuries or to have a claim. If you took either Pondimin and/or Redux you may have a claim.
Did I have to take either Pondimin and/or Redux for 61 days to have a claim?
No. Many people have asked how long they have to have taken either of these drugs in order to be eligible to file a claim and receive benefits. There is no minimum time that you have to have taken either of these drugs to be eligible to receive benefits.
What exactly are the heart valve abnormalities associated with the use of Pondimin and/or Redux?
The heart valve abnormalities that have appeared in some diet drug users occur in the two valves located on the left side of the heart. These valves are known as the aortic valve and the mitral valve. Both valves act like tiny gates in the heart, opening to allow blood to move forward through the heart and closing in such a way that the blood cannot flow backwards. In some diet drug users, the aortic and/or mitral valves have developed lesions that prevent the valves from closing properly. This allows the blood to flow backwards, creating a condition known as "regurgitation."
What is an Echocardiogram?
An Echocardiogram is a test in which sound waves are passed through the chest, creating a video image of the heart and its valves. It should not be confused with an electrocardiogram, in which sensors are placed at various locations on the body to generate a paper readout of heart activity.
If I suffered from Valvular Heart Disease prior to taking Pondimin, Redux and/or Fen-Phen, can I participate in the Settlement?
Even if you suffered from a pre-existing condition, you should still complete a claim form to determine what benefits you may be entitled to receive. To help you determine whether you are entitled to those benefits, you may wish to consult a doctor or a lawyer familiar with the Diet Drug litigation. The determination of what benefits you are entitled to receive will be made by the AHP Settlement Trust based upon your individual circumstances.
Is it necessary to file a lawsuit in order to recover for my claim?
No. In most circumstances, you will not file an ordinary lawsuit. Typically, there will not be any individual suit filed and you will not be required to attend any depositions or make any Court appearances normally associated with the litigation process.
Am I making a claim against my doctor?
No. The class action settlement does not involve your individual doctor. It is a settlement with American Home Products the manufacturer of Pondimin and
Redux. Typically, your doctor will not be involved in the class action suit and will not be a party to the case.
What is the deadline for filing a claim?
There was a deadline with the class action of August 1st, 2002 for certain benefits including, but not limited to, a free echocardiogram in the AHP Settlement Trust Screening Program, free echocardiogram in the Humanitarian Program, reimbursement for echocardiogram received outside the AHP Settlement Trust’s Screening Program and Refund of Prescription Costs.
We realize that these are only a few of the many questions that you may have regarding the class action and the claims that you may have against
AHP. If you have more questions you can reach our firm at the above telephone number or you can send us a confidential e-mail. You can write Robert Kraft at
rkraft@kraftlaw.com.
Kraft & Associates
2777 Stemmons Freeway
Suite 1300
Dallas, Texas 75207
Dallas: (214) 999-9999
Fort Worth: (817) 999-9999
Toll Free: (800) 989-9999
FAX: (214) 637-2118
E-mail: info@kraftlaw.com
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