Controversy has surrounded the use of cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2) inhibitors following the observation that long-term use of these drugs is associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular adverse effects. As discussed in this Review, however, COX2 inhibitors are associated with a similar cardiovascular risk to traditional NSAIDs. The pharmacology of COX2 inhibitors is discussed and potential mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular adverse effects associated with the long-term use of COX2 inhibitors and NSAIDs are outlined.
- Burkhard Hinz
- Bertold Renner
- Kay Brune
