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Bextra® Side Effects

There are a few serious Bextra® side effects that people who are considering, or currently taking this drug, should be aware of. Bextra® is a COX-2 selective non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID). Bextra® was approved by the FDA in November 2001 to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and the severe pain associated with menstrual cramping. Even at the time of Bextra®'s approval, serious Bextra® side effects were already being reported.

At the time of approval, the FDA acknowledged at least twenty cases of Bextra® side effects that resulted in serious skin problems. Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe inflammatory eruption of the skin and mucous membranes, is one of the rare but serious Bextra® side effects.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis, a syndrome in which large portions of the skin become red and peels much like a second degree burn, is another of the potentially serious Bextra® side effects. Severe anaphylactic shock and allergic reaction are also potential Bextra® side effects.

The FDA is currently considering the addition of a black box warning, the agency's strongest alert, on all Bextra® labeling warning of serious Bextra® side effects. Bextra®'s manufacturer, Pfizer, disclosed warnings on product labeling in 2002 regarding serious skin Bextra® side effects. The black box warning would make information on Bextra® side effects more prominent and visible to consumers.

Bextra® side effects may also include indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and headache, discolored or bloody stools, unexplained weight gain, jaundice, flu-like symptoms, unusual bruising or bleeding, and water retention. If you experience any of these Bextra® side effects, you should notify your doctor immediately.

Bextra® side effects have been the topic of significant controversy in late 2004, after the recall of a similar drug called Vioxx. Merck pulled Vioxx from the market in September 2004 when studies indicated that patients taking Vioxx had an increased chance of suffering from a serious heart attack or cerebrovascular accident (stroke). The cardiovascular safety of all COX-2 selective drugs has come into question since this recall.

There is talk that Bextra® side effects may also include cardiovascular risks. Pfizer claims that there have been no substantiated reports that indicate heart attack or stroke as potential Bextra® side effects. The drug company has announced their plans to conduct long term studies of cardiovascular Bextra® side effects.

If you have experienced any Bextra® side effects while taking this medication, you may wish to speak to a qualified legal professional who can advise you of your legal rights and options in a civil case.

Please contact a Bextra® Lawyer if you would like more information on Bextra® side effects and your legal rights and options.

More Bextra® Resources

Bextra Consumer Information - Patient FAQ on Bextra, including side effects, warnings and drug information from the FDA.