Dangerous Celebrex® Side Effects

Celebrex® is a prescription arthritis medication used to treat the pain associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Celebrex® belongs to a class of arthritis drugs known as COX-2 inhibitors that work to treat arthritis by blocking the COX-2 enzymes that lead to inflammation. COX-2 inhibitors are different from traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (which block COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes) in that they only block COX-2 enzymes, leaving COX-1 enzymes free to protect the lining of the stomach.

Celebrex® Side Effects

Like any drug, Celebrex® is associated with certain side effects. The potential hazards of Celebrex® include:

• Stomach ulcers
• Gastrointestinal bleeding - Celebrex® has been linked to 11 cases of gastrointestinal bleeding that required hospitalization.
• Heart attack
• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Kidney failure

In addition to the above side effects, Celebrex® has been linked to at least 10 deaths, and some consumers consider it to be a dangerous drug.

Potential FDA Recall?

Although the FDA has not issued a recall of Celebrex®, it has requested that the label of Celebrex® be revised to warn physicians and patients about the dangerous side effects associated with the drug. As recently as April of 2005, the Celebrex® label underwent another update, strengthening the warnings about the increased risk of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal problems.

Consult a Celebrex® Attorney

If you or a loved one has been harmed by Celebrex®, you are encouraged to contact a Celebrex® lawyer for an evaluation of your potential case.