BEXTRA

BEXTRA
Generic: Valdecoxib
Manufacturer: Pfizer Inc.
Date Approved: November 2001
Status: Removed April 7, 2005
Approved uses: Arthritis, Muscle pain
Off label uses: Bone pain, Muscle pain, General pain

Serious Side Effects:
Heart attack
Blood clots
Stroke
Stevens Johnson Syndrome
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Bextra, manufactured by Pfizer Inc. was approved by the FDA in November of 2001. Bextra, like Vioxx, Celebrex, and Aleve, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID. All of these drugs are part of a new group of NSAIDs referred to as COX-2 inhibitors that greatly increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. These drugs are used to relieve pain associated with arthritis and chronic joint conditions.

The FDA requested Pfiszer end the sale of Bextra in the United States and Europe on April 7, 2005. It was determined that the risks of taking the drug outweighed the benefits after studies linked the drug with higher risks of heat attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular conditions that could be life threatening.

In addition to cardiovascular problems, blood clots in the leg, blood clots in the lung, heart attacks, and strokes Bextra is tied with Stevens Johnson Syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis and other skin hypersensitivity disorders. Stevens Johnson Syndrome is an extreme allergic reaction to chemicals characterized by swelling or blistering of skin; fever, skin rash; difficulty breathing; malaise; cough; swelling and lesion of gums, tongue or lips; swelling of face; sores in the genital tract causing painful urination; and excessive tearing or stickiness of eyes.

Bextra can also cause stomach ulcers, and if you are experiencing dark stools or blood in your stools; burning pain in your stomach; and vomit that is similar to coffee grounds or containing blood contact your doctor.

If you have been injured by Bextra contact Keller & Keller LLP for a free consultation.

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