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Bextra |
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- Description - |
Bextra is a member of the relatively new class of painkillerscalled COX-2 inhibitors. Itis prescribed for the relief of osteoarthritis, rheumatoidarthritis, and painful menstruation(dysmenorrhea).
COX-2 inhibitors are part of a larger group of medications callednonsteroidalanti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). All the drugs in this category(including such familiarremedies as aspirin, Motrin, and Naprosyn) relieve pain andinflammation by limiting theeffect of a natural enzyme called COX-2. Unlike the older NSAIDs,however, the newCOX-2 inhibitors do not interfere with COX-1, a related enzyme thatexerts a protectiveeffect on the lining of the stomach. As a result, Bextra and otherCOX-2 inhibitors areless likely to cause the bleeding and ulcers that sometimesaccompany sustained use ofthe older NSAIDs. |
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- Common Side Effects - |
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Abdominal pain,diarrhea,headache,indigestion,nausea,swelling in the hands and feet,upper respiratory infection |
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- Possible Interactions - |
Aspirin
Blood pressure medications known as ACE inhibitors, includingCapoten, Lotensin, andVasotec
Cough medications containing dextromethorphan, such as Benylinand Robitussin HoneyCough
Fluconazole (Diflucan)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Water pills (diuretics) such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL
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- Manufacturer - |
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Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group |
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235 East 42nd Street |
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New York, NY 10017-5755 |
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USA |
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