Valdecoxib: Side Effects, Overdose and Pregnancy Information

Valdecoxib is a new type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) called COX-2 (Cyclooxygenase-2) inhibitors given for acute pain, menstrual cramps, and the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Valdecoxib fights pain and inflammation by inhibiting the effect of a natural enzyme called COX-2. Unlike the traditional NSAIDs, Valdecoxib does not interfere with a stomach protecting COX-1. Because of that Valdecoxib is less likely to cause the bleeding and ulcers that comes with continued use of the traditional NSAIDs like Naproxen or Ibuprofen. Valdecoxib has also been effective in reducing the number of colorectal polyps in people who suffer from the condition called FAP (familial adenomatous polyposis). Although Valdecoxib is easy on the stomach, it still poses risk to those who have had stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding in the past. If you are one of them, make sure your physician is aware of it.

Valdecoxib(Brand name: Bextra) has been withdrawn from the market in the U.S. by its manufacturer.

VALDECOXIB SIDE EFFECTS

Common side effects of Valdecoxib may include headaches, diarrhea, nausea, respiratory infection, sinus inflammation, back pain, dizziness, insomnia, rash, runny nose, sore throat, and swelling. Rare side effects of Valdecoxib may include allergic reactions, anxiety, blisters in mouth and eyes, blood disorders and infections, blurred vision, bone disorders, breast pain, breast problems, bronchitis, cataracts, chest pain, colitis, conjunctivitis, constipation, coughing, deafness, depression, dermatitis, diabetes, difficult urination, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, drowsiness, dry mouth, dry skin, earache, ear infection, ear ringing, eye infection, eye pain, fainting, fatigue, fever, flu symptoms, fungal infection, gallstones, gangrene, general swelling, glaucoma, hair loss, heart failure, heart irregularities, hemorrhoids, hepatitis, hives, hot flashes, increased appetite, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, increased muscle tone, increased urination, pneumonia, poor coordination, prostate problems, severe skin rash and peeling, skin reaction due to sunlight, skin sensitivity, skin tingling, stroke, suicide, sweating, swollen face and throat, taste disturbances, tendonitis, tiredness, tooth disorders, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections, vaginal problems, vomiting, weakness, and weight gain.

VALDECOXIB WARNING

Depending on your individual risk factors and your personal preference, your doctor may recommend some alternatives to Valdecoxib. Options include switching back to an older class of drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen.

Do not take Valdecoxib if you are allergic to sulfonamide drugs such as sulfadiazine, sulfisoxazole, Gantanol, and Thiosulfil. Also avoid Valdecoxib if you have ever suffered an asthma attack, face and throat swelling, or skin eruptions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.

If you are taking a steroid medication for your arthritis pain, do not stop using it suddenly when you begin therapy with Valdecoxib. Valdecoxib is not an alternative for such drugs.

Valdecoxib has been known to cause kidney or liver problems, particularly in people with an existing condition. If you have such a disorder, inform your doctor before using Valdecoxib.

If you have anemia, make sure the physician knows about it. Valdecoxib occasionally advances this problem.

Valdecoxib sometimes causes water retention, which can make worse swelling, high blood pressure, and heart failure. Use Valdecoxib with caution if you have any of these conditions.

Valdecoxib is not recommended for children under 18.

VALDECOXIB INTERACTION

Do not combine Valdecoxib with herbs like feverfew, garlic, ginseng, and ginkgo as they may interfere with clotting.

Check with your physician before combining Valdecoxib with the following:

ACE-inhibitors
Aspirin: Let your doctor know if you take low-dose aspirin to protect against heart attack. Aspirin increases your risk of stomach ulcers or bleeding.
Blood thinning drugs and supplements like Lecithin or Fish oil.
Fluconazole
Furosemide
Lithium
Thiazide diuretics

VALDECOXIB DOSES

ADULTS
10-20mg once or twice daily.

Reduced dosage is recommended for people with liver problems.

CHILDREN
Valdecoxib is not recommended for children under 18.

VALDECOXIB OVERDOSE

Symptoms of Valdecoxib overdose may include heart attack, breathing difficulties, coma, drowsiness, gastrointestinal bleeding, high blood pressure, kidney failure, nausea, sluggishness, stomach pain, and vomiting. In case of a Valdecoxib overdose, seek medical attention right away.

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