---------
Approved by the Food and Drugs Administration in November 2001, Bextra is a cox-2 inhibitor, one of a once-celebrated group of drugs that were though to treat problems like oestoarthrits, menstrual cramps, and other adult pain without the serious side effects caused by other traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Bextra, like other cox-2 inhibitors, is able to isolate and inhibit the body’s cox-2 enzyme without affecting the cox-1 enzyme, which is required to protect the stomach lining. Other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibited both cox-1 and cox-2 enzymes, hence resulting in stomach problems and disorders.
Manufactured by pharmaceutical giant, Pfizer, Bextra quickly gained popularity and following approval was prescribed to millions of patients in the Unites States. However, the recent controversy and withdrawal of a similar cox-2 inhibitor, Vioxx, has raised concerns over the safety of Bextra, and many think that this could quickly end up with a Bextra recall. Vioxx was recalled in September 2004, following evidence linking it to an increased risk of heart attacks or strokes. As Bextra is a similar medication and is in the same drugs group as Vioxx, a Bextra recall could be in the pipeline.
A recent meeting by the American Heart Association discussed the possible side effects of Bextra on the heart. It was claimed that Bextra patients undergoing heart surgery could be at increased risk. Following the indications of the reports, Pfizer stated that thorough testing would be carried out on Bextra to assess the effects of this drug on the heart. However, Pfizer have been quick to insist that so far there are substantiated reports of any link.
In addition to this, Pfizer has been discussing putting the strongest warning label possible – a black box label – on Bextra packaging. This is to warn patients about the risk of developing Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, which is a very dangerous and life-threatening skin disease. Bextra is already known to cause this skin disease in some patients, and twenty cases of skin problems had already come to light before Bextra was even approved.
Although the black box warning on Bextra will provide warning and information on the risks of developing a fatal skin disease, the risks associated with heart attacks and strokes are yet to be investigated more thoroughly. It is only when studies have been performed and conclusive evidence has been found that a Bextra recall is likely to occur. However, Bextra’s similarity to the doomed drug, Vioxx, leads many to feel that the studies will also indicate similar risks with regards to heart problems.
Although a Bextra recall has not yet been initiated, anyone that has been adversely affected by this drug may still be eligible to seek compensation for their pain, suffering and medical expenses. There are now many drug litigation lawyers that can deal specifically with this type of claim, and it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified and experience Bextra lawyer. This can make a big difference to the potential success of your case, and could result in a higher settlement figure.
An experienced Bextra lawyer will already have the necessary skills and knowledge with regards to the legalities surrounding Bextra lawsuits. This could speed up your claim, and also means that your lawyer can put together as solid a case as possible. Since manufacturing giants like Pfizer have expert legal teams working on their behalf, it is important to counteract this by having an equal level of expertise on your side.
Most drugs litigation firms can offer a free initial consultation, which means that you can look into whether you have grounds to make a claim without having to pay anything. A Bextra lawyer can evaluate your case and offer advice on the potential success of any claims made, as well as which course of legal action to take to maximise on the chances of success.
If so, you may have a possible legal case against the manufacturer of the potentially dangerous drug or medical product. Simply fill out the short form below and an experienced legal expert will contact you as soon as possible!
