Valdecoxib (Systemic)
Brand Names : Bextra
Precautions While Using This Medicine If
you will be taking this medicine for a long time, it
is very important that your doctor check you at regular visits
.
Stomach problems may be more likely to occur if you drink alcoholic beverages
while being treated with this medicine. Therefore, do
not regularly drink alcoholic beverages while taking this medicine
,
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Serious side effects can occur during treatment with this medicine. Sometimes
serious side effects can occur without any warning. However, possible warning
signs often occur, including swelling of the face, fingers, feet, and/or lower
legs; severe stomach pain, black, sticky stools, and/or vomiting of blood
or material that looks like coffee grounds; unusual weight gain; and/or skin
rash. Stop taking this medicine and check with your doctor
immediately if you notice any of these warning signs.
Check with your doctor immediately if fever, drowsiness,
itching of the skin, tiredness, nausea, or stomach pain occurs; these effects
may be the first signs of liver toxicity
.
Valdecoxib may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Although this is rare, it may occur often in patients who are allergic to
aspirin, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or sulfonamide-type drugs.
Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention
.
The most serious signs of this reaction are very fast or irregular breathing,
gasping for breath, wheezing, or fainting. Other signs may include changes
in color of the skin of the face; very fast but irregular heartbeat or pulse;
hive-like swellings on the skin; and puffiness or swellings of the eyelids
or around the eyes. If these effects occur, get emergency help at once. Do
not try to drive yourself. Call an ambulance, lie down, cover yourself to
keep warm, and prop your feet higher than your head. Stay in that position
until help arrives.
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