Warning on Propulsid — May be Hazardous to Your Child!

Dr. Greene’s take on Propulsid…

Once again in chat I spoke with a mother whose baby had just been put on cisapride (Propulsid) for reflux. I have long cautioned against the overuse of this drug for minor problems. 

Now the manufacturers, a unit of Johnson & Johnson, have agreed to voluntarily pull the drug off the market in mid-July 2000, in response to 80 deaths associated with the drug. Amazing that it took 80 deaths, but at least it’s being pulled now.

If your child is taking this drug, talk with your doctor about discontinuing its use. If children need to continue for any length of time, an EKG is recommended.