Aceclofenac (Preservex): updated cardiovascular advice in line with diclofenac and COX-2 inhibitors

Aceclofenac is now contraindicated in patients with certain established cardiovascular diseases.

When using aceclofenac to relieve pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, you should:

  • consider that aceclofenac is now contraindicated in patients with established:
    • ischaemic heart disease
    • peripheral arterial disease
    • cerebrovascular disease
    • congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association, NYHA, classification II-IV)
  • switch patients with these conditions to an alternative treatment at their next routine appointment
  • only start aceclofenac treatment after careful consideration of any significant risk factors for cardiovascular events, eg
    • hypertension
    • hyperlipidaemia
    • diabetes mellitus
    • smoking

Aceclofenac (Preservex) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) licensed for the relief of pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Aceclofenac has little pharmacological activity itself; its main mode of action is through its metabolites which include diclofenac and 4바카라 사이트™-hydroxy diclofenac.

In June 2013 we told you about the for diclofenac. This was after a review by European regulators concluded that the risk of arterial thrombotic events (myocardial infarction; stroke) with diclofenac is greater than with other non-selective NSAIDs and similar to the COX-2 inhibitors.

There are limited data available regarding the arterial thrombotic effects of aceclofenac. The treatment advice for aceclofenac has been updated in line with diclofenac and COX-2 inhibitors. This was based on aceclofenac바카라 사이트™s structural similarity to diclofenac and its metabolism to diclofenac.

Reminder of advice for all NSAIDs

Base the an NSAID on an assessment of each patient바카라 사이트™s individual risk factors including any history of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal illness.

Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms. Periodically re-evaluate the patient바카라 사이트™s need for symptomatic relief and response to treatment.

Article citation: Drug Safety Update volume 8 issue 6 January 2015: 5

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Published 22 January 2015