Severe hypertension after ingestion of an appetite suppressant (phenylpropanolamine) with indomethacin.

Severe systemic hypertension developed in a patient who took indomethacin shortly after ingesting an appetite suppressant ('Trimolets') containing phenylpropanolamine. The hypertension was attributed to a drug interaction whereby the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin exacerbated the sympathomimetic effects of phenylpropanolamine. It is suggested that withdrawal of preparations containing phenylpropranolamine from general use should be considered in view of their potential for adverse reactions with other commonly used drugs and their doubtful therapeutic value.