COX2 Inhibitors
People with lupus taking COX-2 selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should consult with their doctor. Data from several clinical studies has raised concern regarding potential increased health risks associated with the use of prescription COX-2 selective, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), such as Celebrex, Bextra, Vioxx and Aleve.
In late September, 2004, Merck & Co., Inc. announced a voluntary withdrawal of rofecoxib (Vioxx) from the U.S. and worldwide market due to safety concerns of an increased risk of cardiovascular events (including heart attack and stroke) in patients on rofecoxib. Pfizer withdrew Bextra from the market at the FDA's request in 2005.Rofecoxib is a prescription COX-2 selective, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Currently, the only available COX-2 NSAID is Celebrex. The FDA concluded that the benefits of Celebrex outweighed the potential risks but asked the manufacturer to include a patient warning with each prescription discussing potential cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks and encouraged patients and physicians to discuss these risks when Celebrex is prescribed.
For More Information
On the web:
American College of Rheumatology
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
