Bextra, also known as valdecoxib, is a drug commonly prescribed to patients who suffer from osteoarthritis and adult rheumatoid arthritis. Since Bextra was approved by the FDA in November of 2001, the drug has been linked to serious skin diseases such as exfoliative dermatitis and erythema multiforme. These cases, some of which were serious/ life threatening, have occurred in patients with and without a history of allergic-type reactions to sulfonamides. Most importantly, the drug has also been linked to high rates of heart attacks, strokes and even death.

On April 7, 2005, these dramatic side effects led the FDA and European regulators to formally ask Bextra’s manufacturer, Pfizer, to suspend sales of Bextra in the United States and Europe. As a result, Pfizer announced it would halt sales of the drug in the United States and the European Union countries immediately. The FDA stated that the risks posed by Bextra outweigh its benefits.

If you or a loved one has taken Bextra and suffered side effects, please contact the lawyers of The Ferraro Law Firm at 1-800-275-3332 or via e-mail for a Free Case Evaluation.

Important Links:

FDA - Questions and Answers: Strengthened Warnings on Bextra

FDA Safety Alert: Bextra (valdecoxib)

Mayo Clinic – Bextra (Valdecoxib) Drug Information