December 21, 2004

Naproxen 220 mg twice a day showed an increase risk of cardiovascular events compared to placebo in a study investigating therapies to prevent Alzheimer's disease. A CNN news report indicated a 50% increase in cardiovascular events in the naproxen group compared to the placebo group. No data were available from other sources. This study also included a celecoxib group (200 mg twice a day) which did not show an increase risk of cardiovascular events. This study has been suspended and the data are being evaluated by the FDA. The FDA recommends using the lowest dose possible of naproxen and not to exceed 10 days of use. Naproxen (Aleve) is available over-the-counter.

• http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/news/2004/NEW01148.html
• http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/dec2004/od-20.htm
• http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/show/NCT00007189?order=1

• http://intranet.uuhsc.utah.edu/pharmacy/newsletters/rofecoxib_faq.html