Bad News, Good News on Vioxx Heart Attack Risk

Long-term study of individuals taking Vioxx (rofecoxib) for arthritis and chronic pain has confirmed some bad news associated with the painkiller but it has revealed some good news, too.  Vioxx, a Cox-2 inhibitor class of drug, was pulled from the market in 2004 when it became apparent that taking the drug as directed doubled the risk of heart attack and stroke.  The bad news is that the longer-term study confirms this risk of cardiovascular trauma.  The good news is the heightened risk of stroke and heart attack diminishes and returns to normal about 18 months after Vioxx is discontinued. Read more

Popular Supplements Don’t Slow Progression of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is thought to affect at least 21 million Americans, oftentimes bringing crippling pain and limited mobility.  To relieve the pain and slow the progression of the disease, many people turn to glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements but a recent study suggests no clinically documented improvement when these supplements were taken separately or in combination over the two-year study period. Read more

Glucosamine in Doubt for Hip Pain

Many people suffering from osteoarthritis of the hip rely on their daily dose of glucosamine to help them make it smoothly and painlessly through the day. A recent study suggests the glucosamine might not be that effective after all. Read more