Wyeth pulls Pondimin, Redux 'as prudent course of action'

Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories has withdrawn Pondimin (fenfluramine) and Redux (dexfenfluramine) from the market at a cost estimated to be between $200 million and $300 million. Used with generic phentermine, the combination known as fen-phen has been under fire in lawsuits, citizens' petitions, and by a state medical board. The FDA requested the withdrawal by Wyeth and Interneuron Pharmaceuticals, which makes Redux, based on new clinical findings from the Mayo Clinic showing possible heart valve defects in asymptomatic patients taking the diet drugs. Wyeth established a toll-free telephone information line, as the FDA encouraged patients "to stop taking the drugs today," in statements made Monday, September 12.