Pharmac plea on risks

Government drug-buying agency Pharmac wants drug companies to act more swiftly when concerns are raised over potential side-effects of their drugs, and to be responsible in promoting their products.

The call follows reports that show arthritis drug Celebrex, a Cox-2 inhibitor, more than doubles the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The latest findings follow the international withdrawal two months ago of another Cox-2 inhibitor, Vioxx, because there were similar side-effects.

Pharmac chief executive Wayne McNee said a US study raised concerns about Celebrex, and the Food and Drug Administration asked Pfizer to voluntarily withdraw its advertising.

"Despite this request, Pfizer has said that it will continue to promote the product to doctors," he said.

"It is difficult to comprehend how a company can justify continuing to promote the safety of these drugs, and to claim there is no increased risk of cardiovascular events."

The agency decided in January not to fund Cox-2 inhibitors because of potential risks.

- NZPA