Parkinson’s Drug Permax Pulled from Market

March 2007

The manufacturers of pergolide, sold as Permax and generic versions, have pulled the Parkinson’s drug due to significant risks of heart valve damage, and even death. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Valeant Pharmaceuticals would voluntarily end the production and distribution of Permax. Companies Par and Teva will also cease manufacture of their generic brands.

Studies have shown that incidence of heart valve damage may occur in up to 23 percent of Permax and pergolide patients. Users of the medication should be aware that stopping use abruptly may be extremely dangerous. Instead, patients should consult their doctors to discuss alternative treatments to pergolide drugs.