The FDA recently announced an investigation into a list of 20 drugs that may have severe side effects. In this list of drugs is the anti-depressant Cymbalta and the pain killer Oxycontin. Some side effect are very serious including cardiac arrest, cancer, and Purple Glove Syndrome.

What the heck is Purple Glove Syndrome? Basically, it causes your extremities (arms, legs) to become swollen, extreme pain, and sometimes turn purple. In severe cases, amputations are required.

Here's how doctors describe Purple Glove Syndrome: Intravenous phenytoin, available for use since 1956, has several well known adverse effects, such as hypotension, arrhythmias and toxicity. Purple glove syndrome is a less common complication that can have serious consequences. Fasciotomies, amputations and permanent disuse of the hand and forearm have been reported. The etiology of purple glove syndrome is still unknown, but possible etiologies and risk factors have been suggested. Three stages of purple glove syndrome have been identified: appearance, progression and resolution. During the second stage, progression, purple glove syndrome can be identified as either mild or severe. Mild cases may heal uneventfully when nursing measures such as elevation, application of dry, gentle heat and measures to prevent secondary injury are instituted. Severe cases may require emergency surgical intervention such as fasciotomy to relieve pressure and restore blood flow. Therapeutic nursing interventions aimed at maximizing healing and promoting comfort are essential.

I bet you want to know which drugs cause Purple Glove Syndrome. The FDA put together this list of the drugs they're currently "watching". Let's hope they watch closely.