VIOXX (by Merck) and CELEBREX (by Pfizer) NSAIDs
(non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
One in seven Americans is treated with NSAIDs.
More than 80 million prescriptions are written each year!
These Cox-2 inhibitor arthritis drugs carry great risks for blood clots, heart attacks, strokes and more. They are ‘designed’ to fight inflammation and pain, while reducing the risk of ulcers caused by aspirin and ibuprofen. Vioxx is one of Merck’s biggest $ makers; $2.55 BILLION!
However, new studies are fueling product-liability lawsuits for damages. These drugs act by suppressing the synthesis of prostaglandin- hormone-like substances which stimulate target cells into action. Therefore, they can have very serious and dangerous side-effects:
HEMATOLOGIC (blood)- hemolytic anemia, aplastic anemia, decreased platelet aggregation, prolonged bleeding time.
CARDIOVASCULAR (heart)- hypertension, congestive heart failure, angina.
CNS: headaches, confusion, hallucinations, depression, tremors, drowsiness, tinnitus, neuropathy.
GASTROINTESTINAL- esophagitis strictures, nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, diarrhea, constipation, gastric ulcerations, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hepatitis and liver failure.
RENAL (kidneys)- acute renal failure and interstitial fibrosis.
HYPERSENSITIVITY- exacerbations of asthma, rashes, urticaria.
Omega-3 fatty acids stimulate production of the good anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. You can find the Omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil, evening primrose, oil, borage oil and fish oil. By avoiding all “hydrogenated” fats and processed Omega-6 vegetables oils, such as soy, corn, canola and cottonseed, you’ll actually be helping your body to heal. Avoiding all processed foods, including sugar and refined sweeteners as well as carbonated soft-drinks, can start you on the healing process. (www.westonaprice.org and www.webcamput.net)
