COX-2 selective NSAIDs and advancing legal issues in palliative care.
The role of the cycloxygenase-2 selective NSAIDs in palliative care has not been studied, per se, but the improved adverse gastrointestinal and platelet effect profiles of these newer agents over nonselective NSAIDs offers potential advantages in patients with advanced disease. These issues are discussed. The need for greater emphasis on scientific and evidence-based approaches to palliative care is great and generally recognized in the clinical and scientific communities. Recent legal opinions about aggressive care of patients approaching end of life has increased this need. The clinical and ethical implications of these decisions are discussed.
Fine
Perry G
PG
School of Medicine, Pain Management Center, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA. fine@aros.net
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000191:economics; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D016861:Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000191:economics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D016861:Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors