Stroke risks associated with arthritis drugs - Stroke Association comments

Commonly prescribed, older drugs for arthritis and pain may increase the risk of death from stroke, according to a new study.

The drugs examined in the study, called COX-2 inhibitors, include older drugs diclofenac, etodolac, nabumeton and meloxicam, as well as newer drugs called coxibs, including celecoxib and rofecoxib. COX-2 inhibitors are selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The study also looked at non-selective NSAIDs, which include common pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen.

The researchers found no link between the non-selective NSAIDs and increased stroke death. However, the findings suggested that people who were current users of COX-2 inhibitors were more likely to die after a stroke than people who did not take the drugs.

Dr Kate Holmes, Assistant Director of Research at the Stroke Association, said: “COX-2 inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed for arthritis and pain relief, are effective and safe for the majority of people. However, there have been concerns over the possible risk of stroke associated with these drugs for many years.  

“This latest study looked at people who were taking COX-2 inhibitors drugs before having a stroke, and found that these patients were more likely to die within 30 days, compared to people who did not take these drugs. However, the overall health of the patients was not fully taken into account. Other studies investigating COX-2 inhibitors drugs have reported conflicting results, so the controversy over these drugs remains.   

“It is vital that those of us who are at high risk of having a stroke are identified quickly, and receive the most effective medication available. COX-2 inhibitors may not be appropriate for everyone, one size does not fit all. Anyone concerned about the link between their medication and risk of having a stroke should have a chat with their GP.”