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Health Canada Re: U.S. Withdrawal of PERMAX

After findings from two January 2007 studies were published regarding a popular drug used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, Health Canada is informing Canadians who take PERMAX that the drug has recently been withdrawn from the U.S. market because of its association with cardiac valvulopathy. At this time the drug is still available to Canadian consumers.

PERMAX (pergolide) has been available to Canadians with Parkinson's Disease since 1991. It has also been prescribed for the treatment of restless leg syndrome (RLS). The risk of developing cardiac valvulopathy has been known since 2003 and is currently included in medication labelling. Cardiac valvulopathy is a condition that involves inflammation or stiffening of the heart valves and can be life-threatening.

Health Canada is currently reviewing the results of the latest studies surrounding the risk of heart valve problems in an effort to determine if further action will be taken regarding PERMAX. The Canadian public and healthcare providers will be apprised of any findings and appropriate action will be taken if necessary.

Patients taking  PERMAX are advised to contact their physicians and pharmacists if they have questions or concerns about the medication but Health Canada cautions that patients should not discontinue the medication without first consulting with their doctors. Abrupt discontinuation from PERMAX may cause serious side effects including elevated body temperature, muscle rigidity, confusion or altered consciousness.
 
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