Health

Heart attack risk from Cox-2 inhibitors may be highest in first two weeks of use

NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted May 22, 2006

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The risk of a myocardial infarction while taking rofecoxib is at its greatest during the first two weeks of taking it, does not increase with continuing use, and returns to normal within one month of discontinuing it, according to a paper published in the Canadian Medical Assn. Journal this month.

Researchers analyzed data from Quebec's computerized health databases regarding those older than age 65 without a previous heart attack who took either rofecoxib or celecoxib. A quarter who had a heart attack while on rofecoxib did so within the first two weeks. The heart attack risk from celecoxib in this time frame was not statistically significant.

"The period of highest susceptibility for most people taking [rofecoxib] may occur earlier than previously believed," said Linda Levesque, lead author and a doctoral student in epidemiology and biostatistics at McGill University in Montreal.

Rofecoxib (Vioxx) was voluntarily withdrawn in September 2004. Celecoxib (Celebrex) remains on the market, albeit with stronger warnings on the label.

Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2006/05/22/hlbf0522.htm.

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