Posted by Todd (64.34.202.197) on August 22, 2001 at 09:32:59:
In Reply to: vioxx posted by sandy on August 21, 2001 at 22:12:19:
Here are a few excerpts from articles on the recent studies into Vioxx:
"The researchers analyzed four studies that were not designed to examine the drugs' effects on the heart." (Emphasis added)
The studies that were examined were designed to test Vioxx's claim that it has less of a negative impact on the gastrointestinal tract than other NSAIDS. Additionally, all the study subjects suffered rhematoid arthritis - a condition already known to increase the risk of cardiovascular event.
"In a new meta-analysis combining data from 19 clinical studies with Vioxx(R) (rofecoxib) involving more than 28,000 patients, the relative risks of serious cardiovascular events were similar with Vioxx and placebo and with Vioxx and the widely prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ibuprofen, diclofenac and nabumetone." (Emphasis added)
You can be virtually guaranteed that information presented on television and often in most newspapers is incomplete and frequently slanted for the most dramatic impact.
The prudent approach to such reports is to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.
KTSSU,
T