Studies show heart attack risk with certain pain relievers

Naproxen (Aleve)

Naproxen, an over-the-counter pain reliever sold under the brand name Aleve or as a generic, has been found to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), also available by prescription. The study, designed to see if taking Aleve could prevent Alzheimer's disease, was
stopped after results showed that those taking Aleve had an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes compared to those not taking it.

Recent findings from studies on one type of NSAID, the COX-2 inhibitors Vioxx and Celebrex, have raised concerns about the increased risk of heart attack and stroke of other NSAIDs.

FDA Recommendations
The FDA advises people taking naproxen products to follow the instructions for the recommended dose and not take naproxen for longer than 10 days without their doctor's direction. If you are concerned about taking naproxen, talk to your doctor about whether it is right for you.

Visit the FDA web site for more information on Naproxen

---

Celebrex

A recent study found an increased risk of heart attacks in people using Celebrex-a COX-2 inhibitor used to treat arthritis and pain. The study, designed to see if Celebrex could prevent colon cancer in people with colon polyps, found 2 ½ times more heart attacks in people taking the drug compared to people who did not. Celebrex is in the same class of drugs as Vioxx, which was recently withdrawn from the market because of similar safety concerns.

If you are taking Celebrex, talk to your doctor about whether it is right for you.

Visit the FDA web site for more information on Celebrex

---

Vioxx

The anti-inflammatory drug, Vioxx (rofecoxib), was withdrawn from the market after study results showed an increased risk of heart attack and stroke after 18 months of continuous use.

If you take Vioxx, talk to your doctor about other options. More information is available from the FDA at 888.463.6332 or the Web site www.fda.gov/cder

More Information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Visit the FDA web site for more information about Vioxx
FDA Press Release regarding Vioxx
Vioxx Questions and Answers (from the FDA)

---