Bextra (Valdecoxib), the popular pain killer may be linked to increased heart attack and stroke risks. Bextra is in the same class of drugs as Vioxx which was withdrawn after studies showed it was too dangerous. These drugs are both Cox 2 Inhibitors, a drug class that many researchers believe interferes with the body's natural ability to reduce blood clots, thereby increasing heart risks. Many doctors believe Bextra presents the same or similar risks as Vioxx. If that is true, many people who are now taking Bextra may be at great risk.

The drug is made by Pfizer, the world's largest drug maker, which denies any problem exists with Bextra.

A November 2004 study, presented to American Heart Association indicates that patients who take Bextra are more than twice as likely (as non users) to suffer heart attacks or stroke. The study involved 5,930 patients, some taking Bextra and some given a placebo.

Dr. Garret A. FitzGerald, the University of Pennsylvania cardiologist who presented the study to the AHA was quoted in The New York Times saying: "This is a time bomb waiting to go off.... The magnitude of the signal with Bextra is even higher than what we saw in Vioxx."

If you or a family member have suffered serious side effects or a fatal injury such as a heart attack or stroke after using Bextra, you or the family member may be eligible to file a claim against the drug manufacturer. Contact an attorney below to discuss your legal rights at no cost or obligation.