My FDA warning of the week
[July 9, 2015]…..”The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is strengthening an existing label warning that non-aspirin nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke.”

“Examples of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs include ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and celecoxib.”

“Patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or trouble breathing, weakness in one part or side of their body, or slurred speech.”

“The risk of heart attack and stroke with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, either of which can lead to death, was first described in 2005 in the Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions sections of the prescription drug labels.”

“Patients and health care professionals should remain alert for heart-related side effects the entire time that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are being taken. We urge you to report side effects involving NSAIDs to the FDA MedWatch program, using the information in the “Contact FDA” box at the bottom of the page.”