NEW YORK, Dec. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The National Institutes of
Health has reported in an Alzheimer's Disease prevention study that there was
no increased cardiovascular risk seen in elderly patients taking Celebrex (400
mg daily) for up to three years. These results are consistent with the large
body of Celebrex scientific evidence that has accumulated over 10 years in
more than 40,000 patients.
The Alzheimer's Disease and Prevention Trial (ADAPT), which included 2400
patients, did, however, report an increased cardiovascular risk among patients
taking Aleve (naproxen), an over-the-counter pain reliever.
"This is important new information that should be considered by doctors
and patients as they evaluate the various treatments for arthritis and pain,"
said Hank McKinnell, chairman and chief executive officer of Pfizer.
"Millions of people simply can't get through their day without pain relief.
That's why all the emerging information about arthritis medicines --
prescription and over-the-counter -- must be fully evaluated by the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration and other regulatory authorities.
"Recently, preliminary information from three major long-term clinical
trials with Celebrex has become available. Because the early information from
these trials is inconsistent, physicians and patients are understandably
confused. That's why the full study results must be shared with the medical,
scientific and regulatory experts so that we have a more complete
understanding of the risks and benefits of these medicines," McKinnell said.
Pfizer recommends physicians consider alternative therapies when choosing
an arthritis and pain medication for their patients. Celebrex remains one of
these treatment options for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and acute
pain and, according to good medical practice, should be administered at the
lowest effective dose for appropriate patients.
SOURCE Pfizer Inc
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CONTACT:
Andy McCormick, +1-212-733-5469, Mariann
Caprino, +1-212-733-4554, both of Pfizer Inc
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