Arthritis Drugs in the Medical Literature This Month

Journal: Australian Family Physician 2005 Nov;34(11):945-8

Authors: M. Wong, P. Chowienczyk, B. Kirkham

Summary: The article reviews available evidence for increased risk of cardiovascular events with COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs and explores the possible mechanisms for such risks. Because prospective trials have determined that there is an increased cardiovascular risk associated with Vioxx, Celebrex, and Bextra, and a risk has been identified through observational studies associated with NSAIDs, the authors recommend that the drugs be used at the lowest dose and shortest duration possible. They …