Celebrex Questions

What is Celebrex?

What are NSAIDs?

Are all COX-2 drugs the same?

Does Celebrex increase the risk of experiencing
major heart problems?

Does Celebrex increase the risk of heart attacks ?

What is Celebrex?

Celebrex (celecoxib) is a popular arthritis and pain relief drug manufactured by Pfizer. Celebrex was the first COX-2 inhibiting drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Celebrex and other COX-2 drugs such as Vioxx, were expected to revolutionize the way arthritis was treated. Celebrex would inhibit COX-2 enzymes, the enzyme responsible for causing arthritic inflammation and pain, while ignoring COX-1 enzymes, the enzyme responsible for protecting the lining of the stomach.

What are NSAIDs?

NSAIDs, such as naproxen, are Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. NSAIDs were a common way of treating arthritis. Like Celebrex, NSAIDs decrease inflammation in the joints by inhibiting COX-2 enzymes. However, NSAIDs also attack the COX-1 enzymes, and may increase the risk of gastrointestinal distress, ulcers, and other stomach problems.

Are all COX-2 drugs the same?

Every COX-2 drug has a unique chemical makeup. Pfizer’s own Celebrex website claims that even the smallest difference in a drug’s makeup may have a major effect on an individual. For example, Celebrex is composed of celecoxib while Vioxx is composed of rofecoxib. This explains why Pfizer is able to continue marketing Celebrex despite Merck having pulled Vioxx off the shelf in October. However, based on the risks associated with Vioxx, it is safe to assume that similar risks may be associated with Celebrex.

However, each COX-2 inhibitor works in a similar way and some studies suggest may have similar risks. The FDA is currently starting a comprehensive research study on all of these COX-2 drugs.

Does Celebrex increase the risk of experiencing
major heart problems?

A recent study by the National Cancer Institute revealed that patients taking 400 milligrams of Celebrex per day were found to have a risk of experiencing heart problems was 2.5 times greater than people not taking Celebrex. This same study found patients taking 800 milligrams of Celebrex experienced 3.4 times the risk of experiencing major heart problems.

Does Celebrex increase the risk of heart attacks?

Recent studies reveal that Celebrex increases the risk of heart attacks.

We handle Celebrex side effects claims throughout the United States.

Kline & Specter, P.C. has earned a national reputation by representing clients in numerous cases. These lawsuits have led to record-setting jury verdicts and settlements. We know what it takes to win and we will use that knowledge and experience to help you.

If you or a loved one has experienced side effects such as heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular event after taking Celebrex, you may have a claim against the manufacturer. Please call or e-mail our experienced Celebrex side effects lawyers today. We will evaluate your Celebrex claim for free and help you get fair compensation for your damages.