COX-2 Inhibitor

COX 2 inhibitors, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are commonly used to control the inflammation of body tissues related to arthritis, tendonitis and bursitis. The medication’s ability to block the COX 2 enzyme impedes the production of certain chemical messengers responsible for pain and swelling. 

Studies show COX 2 inhibitors possess mild to severe side effects which cause cardiovascular problems including strokes and heart attacks in some patients.  As a result of these hazardous drug effects, COX 2 inhibitors are considered to be defective drugs.  Often drug companies are negligent and do not fully inform doctors and patients about these side effects.  Drug companies may be required to compensate individuals who have become seriously ill or suffered cardiovascular problems due to COX 2 inhibitors.  If you have experienced any of these conditions, you should contact an attorney to learn about your legal rights and the possibility of compensation.

Side Effects of COX 2 Inhibitors

COX 2 inhibitors cause strokes, heart attacks, blood clots, and other cardiovascular problems including death for some patients.  Studies have also shown that COX 2 inhibitors potentially lead to Stevens Johnson Syndrome, which causes inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes of the body.  This condition can affect the eyes, digestive system, lungs and respiratory system.  Stevens Johnson Syndrome can also potentially lead to death. 

The side effects of COX 2 inhibitors have attracted attention from the Food and Drug Administration.  Two common forms of this medicine, Vioxx and Bextra, have been removed from the market, while another brand, Celebrex, continues to be widely used.

Three Commonly Used COX 2 Inhibitors

Vioxx

Vioxx was developed and manufactured by Merck & Co. to relieve symptoms of arthritis, acute pain in adults, and painful menstrual cycles. Vioxx was removed from the market in late 2004 after numerous studies connected Vioxx to the cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes, of many patients.  Due to these findings, Merck & Co. has faced numerous lawsuits seeking compensation for patients whose health was damaged by Vioxx.

Bextra

Bextra was developed and marketed by G.D. Searle and Co. for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.  Bextra was removed from the market in 2006 after concerns were raised linking Bextra to cardiovascular problems and Stevens Johnson Syndrome.  Studies have shown that Bextra does not possess the high level of cardiovascular risks as Vioxx, but does significantly increase a patient’s risk of Stevens Johnson Syndrome.

Celebrex

Celebrex is the only widely used COX 2 inhibitor still on the market today.  It was developed and manufactured by Pfizer for the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.  Celebrex is a popular medication with more than 29 million people being prescribed it since being introduced in 1998.  Celebrex, like Bextra, has been linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome and possesses the same potentially hazardous cardiovascular side effects as other COX 2 inhibitors.  

Often drug companies are negligent and do not fully inform doctors and patients about the harmful side effects of their drugs.  This disregard for their consumers’ well-being has made these manufacturers potentially liable for any illness or death caused by a COX 2 inhibitor. The Law Offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz boast some of the most experienced personal injury attorneys in the United States. Contact the attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz today at (877) 810-4808 to learn more about your rights as a victim of COX 2 inhibitors.