JAMA (the Journal of the American Medical Association) has released two new reports and an editorial which offer new insight into the safety of COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs. Patients have been confused about the safety of these arthritis drugs since Vioxx (rofecoxib) and Bextra (valdecoxib) were removed from the market.

• Cardiovascular Risk and Inhibition of Cyclooxygenase
• Editorial: COX-2 Inhibitors, Other NSAIDs, and Cardiovascular Risk
• Adverse Effects of COX-2 Inhibitors on Renal and Arrhythmia Events

From a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled observational studies (13 studies reported on COX-2 inhibitors, 23 studies on NSAIDs, and 13 studies on both groups of drugs), the information revealed that Vioxx, as previously reported, does increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Celebrex (celecoxib), in commonly used doses, may not increase the risk. Cardiovascular risk was also attributed to diclofenac (Voltaren), indomethacin (Indocin), and probably meloxicam (Mobic). A cardioprotective effect previously attributed to naproxen (Naprosyn) was contradicted. The heart risk for naproxen was considered neutral.

More Related Resources:

• FDA Announces Changes for All NSAIDs
• Q&A: FDA Actions on COX-2 Inhibitors and NSAIDs
• Safety of Arthritis Drugs: Weighing the Risks and Rewards

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