Painkillers taken by millions of arthritis sufferers worldwide are actually of limited use in relieving symptoms, Norwegian scientists said on Tuesday. Researchers from the University of Bergen said their findings suggested the drugs should be used only on a short-term basis and be prescribed much more critically in future. Current guidelines in many countries recommend using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including so-called COX-2 inhibitors, for treating patients with osteoarthritis. But there are mounting concerns about their safety, following the withdrawal of Merck & Co Inc’s COX-2 drug Vioxx in September due to heart attack risk. At the same time, many older NSAIDs, such as naproxen and ibuprofen, can cause gastrointestinal problems.
