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.
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