BEXTRA DESCRIPTION AND USES

Pfizer, the world’s largest drug maker, introduced Bextra in the United States in 2001, two years after Vioxx hit the market. Both are COX-2 inhibitor drugs as is Celebrex, also made by Pfizer. Both Bextra and Celebrex remain on the market, used largely by arthritis sufferers. Merck & Co. has already removed Vioxx from the market. More on Vioxx.

Bextra is administered orally, and its active ingredient, valdecoxib, has been shown to help patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and primary dysmenorrhea.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition involving joint inflammation and possible degeneration. Symptoms include tenderness in the joints—particularly in the hands, feet, wrists, elbows and ankles. Stiffness in the morning and afternoon fatigue may come with the early stages of the syndrome. Deformities, cysts and carpal tunnel-like symptoms are other signs of rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatments for rheumatoid arthritis include rest and nutrition, exercise, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory drugs and the application of gold compounds among other therapies. In some cases, surgery is necessary. For a complete overview of rheumatoid arthritis, see our Online Resources.

• Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and the most common type of arthritis seen in patients today. Symptoms include morning stiffness, trouble with a few joints and tenderness.

Treatments for Osteoarthritis include rehabilitation, exercise, education for coping, acetaminophen and other painkilling drugs. For a complete overview of Osteoarthritis, see our Online Resources.

Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea is pain with ovulation when lesions are not present. The discomfort may be the result of abnormally induced uterine contractions. Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, aches in the lower back or legs, expelling of clots or similar matter, headache, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, urinary tract infection and typically premenstrual syndrome symptoms.

Treatments for primary dysmenorrhea include ibuprofen and similar painkillers, low-dose estrogen supplements, rest and exercise. For a complete overview of primary dysmenorrhea, see our Online Resources.

Effectiveness of Bextra
Bextra has reduced joint swelling and tenderness in Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis patients. It has also been shown to reduce pain for those suffering from primary dysmenorrhea.

Although Bextra has been called a wonder drug for the above stated reasons, serious Warnings and Side Effects and Lawsuits and Claims exist.

If you or a loved one has experienced side effects such as a heart attack, stroke, or Stevens Johnson Syndrome after taking Bextra, you may have a lawsuit against Pfizer. Please call or e-mail our experienced Bextra lawyers today. We will evaluate your claim and work to get you the best possible settlement.

* The information on this site about Bextra side effects is not intended to be or to replace legal or medical advice. Consult an experienced Bextra side effects attorney for individual advice regarding your own legal situation. Confer with your doctor or other qualified medical professional before taking any drug and before changing your own personal healthcare regimen.