Fen-Phen and Redux have been associated with which health risk?

Fen-Phen and Redux have been associated with which health risk?

• A. Pulmonary arterial hypertension
• B. Hepatic failure
• C. Kidney stones
• D. Skin rash

Answer: (A)

Weight-loss drugs like Fen-Phen and Redux are linked to serious cardiovascular side effects driven by serotonin pathway effects. Increased serotonin in the circulation can stimulate 5-HT2B receptors on heart valves and the pulmonary vasculature, causing fibrotic changes in the valves and remodeling of the pulmonary arteries. This leads to pulmonary arterial hypertension, a condition where the pressure in the lungs’ arteries rises and the heart has to work harder. Among the listed risks, pulmonary arterial hypertension is the most well-documented and the best-supported association with these drugs. Hepatic failure, kidney stones, and skin rash are not the classic risks identified with Fen-Phen or Redux.

Weight-loss drugs like Fen-Phen and Redux are linked to serious cardiovascular side effects driven by serotonin pathway effects. Increased serotonin in the circulation can stimulate 5-HT2B receptors on heart valves and the pulmonary vasculature, causing fibrotic changes in the valves and remodeling of the pulmonary arteries. This leads to pulmonary arterial hypertension, a condition where the pressure in the lungs’ arteries rises and the heart has to work harder. Among the listed risks, pulmonary arterial hypertension is the most well-documented and the best-supported association with these drugs. Hepatic failure, kidney stones, and skin rash are not the classic risks identified with Fen-Phen or Redux.