afactory,
Thank you for your question. Prior to providing you with information,
I want to ensure that you are aware that answers and comments provided
on Google Answers are general information, and are not intended to
substitute for informed professional medical advice. Prior to
exploring any medication or health related activities, seek the
professional advice of a doctor.
Celebrex, the brand name for celecoxib, is a a drug that is prescribed
for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is what is known as a
COX-2 inhibitor. Cox-2 is Cyclooxygenase-2, which is an enzyme that
has been linked pain within arthritic patients. In April of 1999,
there was an initial report that patients taking Celebrex had a higher
risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, a week later, the Wall
Street Journal published a report stating that the information was not
true.
There were some reports in 2001 of increased risk of stroke with
Celebrex and other Cox-2 inhibitors, including an article in the
Journal of American Medicine. This study stated "we urge caution in
prescribing these agents to patients at risk for cardiovascular
morbidity." Pfizer and Pharmacia (makers of Celebrex) vehemently
denied the story and pointed to false information and testing regimens
within the article. Since that time, it appears there haven't been
studies or published reports regarding the taking of Celebrex and
increased stroke. So to answer your question, no, there is no "hard"
evidence supporting the theory that Celebrex increases chance of
stroke. HOWEVER, all of this being said, your doctor would be your
best source of information as there are some contraindicated medicines
with Celebrex that can cause problems. Not all drugs and medications
are for all people and presciption medication must be monitored by
your medical professional.
Thank you for your question and I hope the information I have provided
is helpful. If you need any additional clarification, please let me
know.
Regards,
-THV
Search Strategy:
celebrex increase stroke
cox-2 stroke
References:
Federal Drug Administration - Celebrex
http://www.fda.gov/cder/consumerinfo/druginfo/celebrex.htm
Celebrex (Celecoxib) Not Associated With Increases In Stroke Or Heart
Attacks
http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/1cee0a.htm
Report Submitted To FDA On Risks Linked To Celebrex
http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/f8986.htm
Celebrex Rebounds After Report
http://arthritis.about.com/library/weekly/aa050999.htm
Data Support Overall Efficacy And Safety of Celebrex Including No
Increased Risk of Heart Attack And Stroke
http://www.lef.org/newsarchive/disease/2001/05/22/pr/0000-3694-nj-pharmacia-ny-times.html
YOU AND A: ARTHRITIS DRUGS
Pain and Confusion
Francesca Lunzer Kritz
Special to The Washington Post
Tuesday, September 4, 2001
http://www.mijnapotheek.nl/medische%20artikelen/vioxx_celebrex2.htm
Mukherjee D, Nissen SE, Topol EJ. Risk of cardiovascular events
associated with selective COX-2 inhibitors. JAMA 2001;286(8):954-9. |
