The demise of the super-aspirins: an opportunity for integrative medicine?
The recent findings of significant cardiac risks with longterm use of the selective COX-2 inhibitors and naproxen leave many patients without access to drugs they may depend on for sustained management of pain. These cardiac risks can arise from disturbances in the ratio of prostacyclin and thromboxane A-2. Integrative medicine offers a variety of interventions that do not disrupt this ratio, including herbs, nutriceuticals, mind-body strategies, and physical care. Clinical studies for evaluating these interventions, and research on sustainable production of those that are natural substances, should be given greater funding priority at this time.
Block
Keith I
KI
Block Center for Integrative, Cancer Care, 1800 Sherman, Suite 515, Evanston, IL 60201, USA. drblock@blockmedical.com
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced; D000529:Complementary Therapies; D016861:Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D029001:Herbal Medicine; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D059408:Pain Management; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011603:Psychophysiology; D012109:Research Support as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors
D016861:Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors