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COX-2, NSAIDs, and cardiovascular risk

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Abstract

Clinical studies of selective and nonselective inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) provide evidence that inhibition of the enzyme is associated with modestly increased risks of cardiovascular thrombotic events. Investigation of the physiology of COX-2 demonstrates a complex array of interlinked factors affecting its regulation and function. Efficient integration of data from the basic sciences and randomized and observational studies is necessary to fully understand the consequences of COX-2 inhibition and thereby provide guidance for the safe use of COX-2-inhibiting drugs.

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Correspondence to Patricia McGettigan BSc(Pharm), MD, FRCPI, FRACP.

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McGettigan, P., Henry, D. COX-2, NSAIDs, and cardiovascular risk. Curr Cardio Risk Rep 1, 296–302 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-007-0048-y

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