Healthy Skepticism Library item: 9768

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Eriksen SA, Nilsen JS, Spigset O, Slordal L.
Selective COX-2 inhibitors--attitudes and prescription habits among general practitioners
Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 2003 May 15; 123:(10):1334-7

Abstract:

Background. Since their introduction in Norway in mid-2000, there has been a substantial growth in the use of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) rofecoxib and celecoxib. These agents selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and have been Considered to give therapeutic effect without many of the serious side effects associated with less selective COX inhibitors. Material and methods. A questionnaire was sent to 602 general practitioners in three Norwegian counties in order to map their attitudes and prescription habits with regard to selective COX-2 inhibitors. Results. 310 (51 ) of the practitioners responded. Selective COX-2 inhibitors constituted 30 % of the prescriptions of NSAIDs. In total, 81 of the responders erroneously stated that selective COX-2 inhibitors have fewer side effects than conventional NSAIDs. Additionally, 71 % of the doctors regarded selective COX-2 inhibitors as less advantageous than nonselective NSAIDs in a pharmacoeconomical perspective. 81 % stated that cost was important in the decision of when to use selective COX-2 inhibitors instead of conventional NSAIDS. Interpretation. Many general practitioners have a misconception of some aspects regarding selective COX-2 inhibitors, most likely caused by the extensive promotion of these drugs by their manufacturers.

Keywords:
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/administration & dosage* Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/adverse effects Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors/administration & dosage* Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors/adverse effects Family Practice Female Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Humans Male Norway Physician's Practice Patterns/statistics & numerical data* Prescriptions, Drug/statistics & numerical data Questionnaires