Side Effects of Didrex

[judyfrances]

I am currently taking didrex for obesity.  Are there any bad side effects on the heart?  How long can I stay on this medication?  Can didrex cause cancer?

[John W.]

Hi Judy, the doctor is right that you should address specific questions to the doctor who is treating you. But, in case you're too worried, I am a registered pharmacist in New Hampshire, and, although the policies of the board won't allow me to be too specific, I can give you some GENERAL information on Didrex (IC Benzphetamine).  I double-checked the package labelling since you posted your query: this medication can--and I repeat can--cause cardiac palpitations, tachycardia, and elevation of blood pressure (because it is a CNS stimulant).  There have been no tests for cancer performed (or at least published) by the drug company (UPJOHN).  The dosage can as low as 25 or 50 mg once a day, up to 50 mg three times a day (150 mg total).  The treatment GENERALLY lasts for 2-3 months--because it is a schedule III medication, there is a risk for chemical and psychological dependence.  I REPEAT, these are GENERAL statements about the medication and are NOT tailored to your specific conditions!  Hope this Helps!        JOHN

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear judy,
These are good questions and ones that you will need to ask your doctor about.  As far as I know there are no know cardiacor cancer side-effects but then there were no known cardiac effects when phen-fen was released either.