Vanderbilt Television News Archive

(Studio) Report introduced
REPORTER: David Brinkley

(DC) Serious and sometimes fatal side effects of Alupent asthma medication examined. ["JIM" - describes reaction.] [Dr. Richard CUSHING - notes Jim went into respiratory arrest.] [Dr. Leslie HENDELES - warns against overuse of Alupent.] ["JIM" - notes panic when one can't-breathe.] Alupent commercial shown. FDA's tight control of drug and drug's implication in large number of deaths of asthmatics in England and Australia recalled. [FDA (Food and Drug Administration) spokesperson Dr. Mark NOVITCH - explains agency's relaxation of controls.] [CUSHING - discusses dangers to purchasers.] Alupent manufacturer's response to controversy outlined on screen; FDA (Food and Drug Administration) decision said made over objections of medical community and without consulting FDA (Food and Drug Administration) allergy advisory board [Advisory board spokesperson Dr. William PIERSON - criticizes handling of affair.] Possibility of congress investigation noted.
REPORTER: George Strait