Generic Name: E: VALDECOXIB (val-de-KOX-ib)

Bextra Manufacturer: UPJOHN

What is Bextra Used for:   Bextra (Valdecoxib) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid), and menstrual discomfort. This drug works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain and swelling.

How to use this Bextra (Valdecoxib): Follow the directions for using this Bextra (Valdecoxib) provided by your doctor. This Bextra (Valdecoxib) may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) and you are taking 1 dose daily, take the missed dose if you remember the same day. Skip the missed dose if you do not remember until the next day. DO NOT take 2 doses at once.

Cautions: DO NOT TAKE THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) IF YOU HAVE HAD A SEVERE ALLERGIC REACTION to aspirin or any Bextra (Valdecoxib) containing aspirin or to a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (such as Feldene, Motrin, Naprosyn, Clinoril), or sulfa Bextra (Valdecoxib)s (e.g., sulfonamide antibiotics). A severe reaction includes a severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, or dizziness. If you have a question about whether you are allergic to this Bextra (Valdecoxib) or if a certain Bextra (Valdecoxib) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, contact your doctor or pharmacist. IF YOU EXPERIENCE difficulty breathing; tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or if you develop a rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately. Do not take any more doses of this Bextra (Valdecoxib) unless your doctor tells you to do so. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this Bextra (Valdecoxib) for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this Bextra (Valdecoxib). ALCOHOL WARNING: If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day, ask your doctor whether you should take this Bextra (Valdecoxib) or other pain relievers/fever reducers. This Bextra (Valdecoxib) may cause stomach bleeding. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB), either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any Bextra (Valdecoxib)s that contain aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or ketoprofen. Aspirin as prescribed by your doctor for reasons such as heart attack or stroke prevention (i.e., non-arthritis doses) should be continued. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this Bextra (Valdecoxib) during pregnancy. THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) SHOULD NOT BE USED during the third trimester. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this Bextra (Valdecoxib).

Possible Bextra Side Effects: SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this Bextra (Valdecoxib) include stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, or headache. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience unusual weakness or weight gain. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience swelling of hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing; hoarseness; flu-like symptoms; sluggishness; yellowing of the skin or eyes; dark urine or pale stools; unusual fatigue, change in amount of urine, dizziness, or blurred vision. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY AND STOP TAKING THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) if you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects: black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. Rarely, this Bextra (Valdecoxib) can cause serious, even fatal, side effects such as a severe peeling skin rash, known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION if you experience any of the following symptoms: skin rash, peeling, or blisters. AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO THIS BEXTRA (VALDECOXIB) IS UNLIKELY, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include itching, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.