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Vioxx and other Cox-2 Inhibitors in Cancer
| The recent withdrawal of Vioxx from the market by Merck & Co. is a bit unsettling in the cancer community. |
November 11, 2004
In the first place, drugs such as Vioxx are a class known as COX-2 inhibitors and have been quite effective in pain management. But, also, another COX-2 inhibitor, Celebrex, has shown some very positive effects in cancer control and prevention. At Presbyterian Cancer Center we have several trials using Celebrex in colon, lung and breast cancer.
While it is not clear that all COX-2 inhibitors at this time have the same effect on the cardiovascular system as does Vioxx, there has been some rumblings in the medical community that need careful assessment, especially in regards to Celebrex. (This is the drug that Peggy Fleming touted as she performed for a wide distributed TV commercial!).
Our posture for the immediate time is to be cautious and continue with our planned uses of Celebrex. Clearly Vioxx is no longer available and you should see you physician if you are still taking Vioxx.
The real dilemma will come if it is found that the COX-2 drugs are effective in cancer treatment and control, but have a deleterious effect on healthy hearts! We are prepared to meet this challenge if it comes.
