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Bextra, a drug manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, was approved in America by the Food and Drugs Administration in November 2001. This drug was known as a cox-2 inhibitor, which was prescribed for osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, and adult pain management. Other cox-2s had been approved around the same time, and collectively these cox-2 inhibitors were widely welcomed by both professionals and patients. This was because the non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs traditionally prescribed for these problems affected both the cox-1 enzyme and the cox-2 enzyme produced by the body. Because the cox-1 enzyme is responsible for protecting the lining of the stomach, many patients suffered chronic gastric problems. However, cox-2 inhibitors like Bextra were able to isolate and inhibit just the cox-2 enzyme, thus reducing the risk of gastric problems dramatically.
However, it soon transpired that Bextra – which had quickly gained popularity and was being prescribed to millions – had its own deadly side effects to worry about. Allegedly, the Food and Drugs Administration knew about these possible risks, as did Pfizer officials, when the drug was approved. Bextra is linked to a deadly skin disease called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, also known as SJS. Another variation of the disease is Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). Patients taking Bextra are at risk of contracting these potentially deadly skin diseases, yet the FDA waited three years before finally ordering the manufacturer of Bextra, Pfizer, to add a black box warning onto Bextra packaging warning about the possible risk of these SJS or TEN.
SJS and TEN are most commonly the result of a drug reaction or medication such as Bextra. Other drugs that can increase the risk of getting these diseases include: other NSAIDS (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs), Allopurinol, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, and sulfa antibiotics. The diseases can also result from bacterial infections, and in many cases the cause is unknown altogether.
Patients that are taking or have been taking Bextra or any of the other high-risk drugs are urged to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of SJS and TEN. Any signs of these diseases should be reported immediately to your doctor, as you will need to cease the use of the drug in question and will need fast medical attention. Symptoms to look out for include:
Although there is little that can be done from a legal perspective for those that contract the disease through a bacterial infection or an unknown cause, those that contract the disease through the use of Bextra may be eligible to claim compensation from the manufacturer of the drug, Pfizer. You may be able to claim compensation for pain, suffering and any medical expenses incurred through the contraction of this disease.
SJS and TEN are life threatening diseases, and for some the black box warning on Bextra comes too late. For those that have died from SJS/TEN contracted through Bextra, family members may be eligible to file a claim for the pain, suffering and loss of a loved one. Most Bextra lawyers are highly trained and experienced in this field, and can quickly ascertain whether you have grounds to make a claim. Most also offer a free initial consultation, which means that you can discuss your case and determine whether you do have grounds to file a lawsuit without having to pay anything upfront.
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!
