The risk of gastrointestinal bleed, myocardial infarction, and newly diagnosed hypertension in users of meloxicam, diclofenac, naproxen, and piroxicam

Abstract

Study objective: To obtain formally quantified data on the relation of meloxicam to newly diagnosed gastrointestinal problems, myocardial infarction, or treated hypertension.

Design: Nested case-control study.

Setting: United Kingdom-based General Practice Research Database.

Patients: Patients who received prescriptions for meloxicam, diclofenac, naproxen, or piroxicam formed the study population. Cases were people who developed gastrointestinal problems, myocardial infarction, or hypertension.

Measurements and main results: Relative risk estimates for developing the study outcomes were provided for each study nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), with diclofenac as the reference drug. In no instance was meloxicam associated with an increased risk for a study outcome.

Conclusion: Compared with the other NSAIDs, meloxicam was not materially associated with any study outcomes. This study provides reassurance to those prescribing this newer class of NSAIDs.