Research finds some anti-inflammatory drugs could increase the risk of heart attack or stroke

Wednesday 13 September 2006

Research at the University of Newcastle has found that certain commonly used anti-inflammatory drugs could increase the risk of heart attack or stroke for patients who already have heart disease factors, such as diabetes, smoking and high blood pressure.

Doctor Patricia McGettigan and Professor David Henry conducted a meta-analysis of 23 studies into products including diclofenac, naproxen, ibuprofen, celecoxib and meloxicam.

The analysis has been published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Professor Henry said the findings raised serious questions about the safety of some of these drugs for people at risk of suffering a heart attack.

"Patients who already have a history of heart problems should discuss with their doctor or pharmacist, the possibility of using a safer medication," he said.

"It is still a small risk, but important for people in at-risk groups.

"The study found an increased risk of heart attack with diclofenac, indomethacin and meloxicam.

"The drug which appeared to be safest for at-risk patients was naproxen."