The National Institutes of Health has reported in an Alzheimer's disease prevention study that there was no increased cardiovascular risk seen in elderly patients taking Celebrex (400 mg daily) for up to three years. These results are consistent with the large body of Celebrex scientific evidence that has accumulated over 10 years in more than 40,000 patients, a Pfizer press release said.

The Alzheimer's Disease and Prevention Trial (ADAPT), which included 2400 patients, did, however, report an increased cardiovascular risk among patients taking Aleve (naproxen), an over-the-counter pain reliever.

"This is important new information that should be considered by doctors and patients as they evaluate the various treatments for arthritis and pain," said Hank McKinnell, chairman and chief executive officer of Pfizer. "Millions of people simply can't get through their day without pain relief. That's why all the emerging information about arthritis medicines-prescription and over-the-counter-must be fully evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration and other regulatory authorities.

"Recently, preliminary information from three major long-term clinical trials with Celebrex has become available. Because the early information from these trials is inconsistent, physicians and patients are understandably confused. That's why the full study results must be shared with the medical, scientific and regulatory experts so that we have a more complete understanding of the risks and benefits of these medicines," McKinnell said.

Pfizer recommends physicians consider alternative therapies when choosing an arthritis and pain medication for their patients. Celebrex remains one of these treatment options for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and acute pain and, according to good medical practice, should be administered at the lowest effective dose for appropriate patients.