Coxibs and Caution

Coxibs and the endothelium.

In this issue of the Journal, Title et al. (1) present the results of the much-awaited randomized double-blind evaluation of rofecoxib on endothelial function in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). From a cardiovascular standpoint, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors have been the topic of much discussion, debate, and trepidation (2–5). Mechanistically, the concern about the use of the...

Coxibs and Heart Disease

Since their approval in 1998, the popularity of selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) inhibitors has swung from a domination of drug sales to serious disputes about their cardiovascular safety. Despite the numerous studies on COX2 inhibitors that have emerged, drawing conclusions about their cardiovascular safety has been complicated by conflicting results, underpowered clinical trials, and the lac...

Coxibs and cardiovascular disease.

Coxibs and cardiovascular risk.

J Cotter and Eric Wooltorton highlight the importance of differences in cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) selectivity as a potential explanation for the prothrombotic effects of coxibs. However, they neglect important evidence that celecoxib might not share the same cardiovascular (CV) risk as rofecoxib. An increased thrombotic risk with celecoxib has been demonstrated only in the APC (Adenoma Preventio...

COXIBs In Clinical Practice

9. Some studies have observed an increase in cardiovascular risk in patients on COXIBs; this has not been conclusively studied in well designed clinical trials. Caution is warranted; further safety studies are planned. Additional comments and/or reviews provided by: Dr. P. Pollock (Rheum), Dr. J. Sibley (Rheum), Dr. L. Worobetz (Gastroent), Dr. J. Richardson (Pharm), Dr. D. Blackburn (Col. of ...