Bextra
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Proper noun: A brand name for the drug valdecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor. It was formerly prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation, particularly for conditions like arthritis and menstrual pain, with the intended benefit of reducing gastrointestinal side effects common to other NSAIDs.
Usage
- Bextra was withdrawn from the market in 2005 due to safety concerns.
- The doctor explained that Bextra was designed to be gentler on the stomach than older painkillers.
- Studies on the cardiovascular risks associated with Bextra led to its removal.
Advanced Usage
- "Bextra controversy": Refers to the period of scrutiny, legal challenges, and eventual market withdrawal of the drug due to its associated risks of serious skin reactions and cardiovascular events.
- The Bextra controversy highlighted important issues in pharmaceutical regulation.
Variants and Related Words
- Valdecoxib (n): The generic, non-branded name for the pharmaceutical compound marketed as Bextra.
- COX-2 inhibitor (n): The class of drugs to which Bextra (valdecoxib) belongs. Other examples include celecoxib (Celebrex) and rofecoxib (Vioxx, also withdrawn).
Synonyms
- Valdecoxib (scientific/generic name synonym)
Notes on Meaning
This word is almost exclusively used as a proper noun referring to the specific, now-discontinued, brand-name medication. It is primarily encountered in historical, medical, or legal contexts discussing pharmaceutical history and drug safety. It is not used in general language.
Noun
- a Cox-2 inhibitor (trade name Bextra) that relieves pain and inflammation without harming the digestive tract