In the 'Supplements And Medications' section of our in-depth questionnaire we ask the following question about COX-2 inhibitor use:
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Have you used COX-2 inhibitors like celecoxib (Celebrex) and Rofecoxib (Vioxx)?
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Your answer |
...indicates |
...and suggests |
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"Don't know" |
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| 2. |
"No" |
Absence of COX-2 inhibitor use |
A risk factor |
| 3. |
"Use in the past only" |
History of COX-2 inhibitor use |
A risk factor |
| 4. |
"Occasional / intermittent use" |
Occasional COX-2 inhibitor use |
A risk factor |
| 5. |
"Regular, nearly daily use" |
Regular COX-2 inhibitor use |
A risk factor |
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Your answer will affect the likelihoods of the conditions below.
Any answers in green reduce the likelihood of the condition.
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| Answers |
Condition |
Comment |
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3 |
4 |
5 |
Stroke |
Animal research suggests that the selectivity of COX-2 inhibitors could create an imbalance that promotes blood clotting and blood vessel constriction. COX-1 makes thromboxane A2, which promotes blood vessel constriction and "stickiness" in blood cells called platelets. COX-2 is the major source of prostacyclin, which helps prevent platelets from clumping and promotes blood vessel dilation. Until further research is completed it may be wise to use COX-2 inhibitors cautiously, if at all, if you are at greater risk of stroke. [Science April 19, 2002;296: pp.539-41] |
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GLOSSARY
Platelets (Platelet)
Cells that help the blood to clot.
Stroke (Stroke-Type Event)
A sudden loss of brain function caused by a blockage or rupture of a blood vessel that supplies the brain, characterized by loss of muscular control, complete or partial loss of sensation or consciousness, dizziness, slurred speech, or other symptoms that vary with the extent and severity of the damage to the brain. The most common manifestation is some degree of paralysis, but small strokes may occur without symptoms. Usually caused by arteriosclerosis, it often results in brain damage.
Last updated: May 10, 2007
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