Arthritis Drugs in the Medical Literature This Month - May 2006

Journal: Postgraduate Medical Journal 2006 Apr;82(966):242-5

Author: P. Sooriakumaran

Summary: Many large studies confirmed the improved gastric side effect profile of coxibs compared with non-selective NSAIDs; however, reports of increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality followed, and the manufacturer Merck was forced to withdraw rofecoxib (Vioxx) from the market. Other coxibs have also either perished or had restrictions placed on their use. However, there seem to be significant differences between coxibs regarding their cardiovascular profiles, and the evidence for a class effect is …