Bextra

BEXTRA ALERT! April 7, 2005

Arthritis drugmaker Pfizer withdrew Bextra from U.S. and European markets at the request of the FDA. All sales of Bextra have been suspended.

What is Bextra?
Bextra (generic name: valdecoxib) is a COX-2 inhibitor, marketed by Pharmacia Corporation and Pfizer Inc. in the United States. The drug is prescribed for the treatment of osteoarthritis, adult rheumatoid arthritis, and the pain associated with menstrual cramping.

Why is it dangerous?
Bextra has been linked to heart attack, stroke and rare skin diseases such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Recent reports show that Bextra may be more likely to cause heart attacks and stroke than Vioxx.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is an extreme allergic reaction to chemicals. Common causes are the drug Arava (leflunomide), painkillers, and antibiotics. Bextra has now been linked to this potentially life threatening syndrome.

Symptoms of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are blistering, fever, cough, malaise, swelling and lesions of gums, tongue, or lips, excessive tearing or “stickiness” of eyes and sores in the genital tract that cause painful urination.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) has been described as “an eruption resembling scalding of the skin.” This dermatological condition is characterized by extensive epidermal loss suggestive of severe scalding.

Both of these disorders are potentially life threatening.

What should I do if I took Bextra?
If you or a loved one has used Bextra, promptly consult your doctor for an evaluation. You should not stop taking Bextra unless your doctor instructs you to do so. Call us or fill out our online consultation form today, so that we can evaluate your claim and see what we can do for you!

Free Case Evaluation!

If you have been injured as a result of taking this drug, contact the Villari law firm now for a free consultation because time is of the essence to protect your legal rights. Complete a FREE consultation form online or call us today toll free at 1-800-266-4743!