EMA reviews NSAIDs safety

The EMA has started a new review of the cardiovascular safety of non-selective NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

The CHMP’s previous opinion of NSAIDs in 2006 was positive, but a small possibility of an increased risk of thrombotic events such as heart attack or stroke could not be excluded, particularly involving high doses and long-term treatment with NSAIDs.

The CHMP will update its opinion in light of recently published evidence from the independent research project Safety Of non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (SOS) funded by the European Commission.

NSAIDS have been subject to several European reviews in relation to gastrointestinal and cardiovascular safety and the occurrence of serious skin reactions since the CHMP’s 2006 opinion.

It will review the results thoroughly, together with other available clinical research data, to distinguish the need to update the CHMP’s 2006 opinion.