Recently, both new anti-arthritis medications, Vioxx® and Celebrex® have been in the news regarding potential increase in heart disease risk with the use of these agents. There is much disagreement over the validity of the information. The drug manufacturers claim that the patients on their products were compared to patients on drugs that have known cardioprotective properties. Therefore, it is contended that the risk of heart disease is decreased by the other therapies not increased by their drugs. No official action has been taken by the government or the drug manufacturers regarding the use of these medications. Patients who have heart conditions or are on anticoagulant therapy and are also taking Vioxx® or Celebrex® may wish to discuss their therapy with their doctors.

Another medication in the news recently is the cholesterol-lowering drug Baycol®. Bayer Corporation voluntarily removed Baycol® from the market because of the risk for Rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis is a serious, potentially fatal condition involving the breakdown of muscle tissue leading to kidney failure. Effective August 8, 2001, Bayer discontinued the marketing and distribution of all strengths of Baycol®. Patients on Baycol® should be switched to an alternative therapy. Rhabdomyolysis is an adverse effect of all statin drugs. The risk for Rhabdomyolysis is increased when statin drugs are used in combination with gemfibrozil. Patients on cholesterol lowering medications should report any muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially during the first few months of therapy of after any increase in dose.

Taos Pharmacy is committed to providing the latest in drug information. Contact us for a review of your prescription, over the counter and natural medications. We can help you avoid dangerous drug interactions, identify adverse effects, and recommend appropriate nutritional support.

[Return to Archive Index]

[PageTop]