Title
BFAD Circular on Labeling of COX-2 Inhibitors and NSAIDs
Law
Bfad Bureau Circular No. 11, S. 2005
Decision Date
Jun 7, 2005
BFAD mandates revised labeling for selective COX-2 inhibitors and NSAIDs, requiring boxed warnings about cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, while emphasizing the importance of using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
A

Labeling Requirements for Selective COX-2 Inhibitors

  • Include black boxed warnings specifying risk of CV events and potentially life-threatening GI bleeding, plus relevant contraindications.
  • Remind practitioners to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.
  • Manufacturers must commit to long-term safety studies and monitoring.
  • Mandatory inclusion of patient leaflets providing safety information.

Labeling Requirements for Prescription Nonselective NSAIDs

  • Incorporate boxed warnings regarding CV risk and potentially serious GI adverse events.
  • Contraindicate use in patients undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.
  • Include instructions advising patients to consult doctors about risks/benefits and to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.

Labeling and Market Conditions for OTC NSAIDs

  • No current data suggesting increased serious CV risk for short-term, low dose OTC NSAID use.
  • Allowed on the market provided package inserts are revised with:
    • Specific CV and GI risk information.
    • Strong warnings on dose limits and treatment duration.
    • Warnings on potential skin reactions prompting discontinuation.
  • Public information campaign through posters and leaflets available in drug outlets.

Specific Absolute Contraindications for Selective COX-2 Inhibitors

  • History of stroke (CVA), myocardial infarction (MI), CABG, congestive heart failure (NYHA II-IV).
  • Placed prominently after dosage instructions on the first page of inserts.

Cautions and Additional Warnings for Selective COX-2 Inhibitors

  • Avoid in patients allergic to NSAIDs or with asthma.
  • Use caution in patients with ischemic heart disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking history, or peripheral arterial disease.
  • Discontinue if skin rash or hypersensitivity occurs.
  • Include warnings about potential gastrointestinal and renal toxicities.

Specific Absolute Contraindications for Prescription NSAIDs

  • History of stroke, MI, CABG, uncontrolled hypertension, and congestive heart failure (NYHA II-IV).
  • Placement of warning similar to COX-2 inhibitors: immediately after dosing instructions.

Additional Warnings for Prescription NSAIDs

  • Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to ASA or other NSAIDs.
  • Contraindicated in patients with active or past peptic ulcer disease.
  • Caution advised for those with cardiac, liver, and renal diseases; dose adjustments and monitoring recommended.

Public Information for OTC NSAIDs

  • Posters in English and Tagalog must inform about:
    • NSAID examples and potential side effects: bleeding stomach ulcers, liver impairment, kidney problems, fluid retention.
    • Symptoms requiring discontinuation: stomach pain, black stools, jaundice, flu-like symptoms, swelling.
    • Allergy warnings, especially about aspirin allergy.
    • Advice for people with heart issues, hypertension, stomach ulcers, asthma, renal problems, or pregnancy to consult healthcare professionals.

Summary of Implementation

  • Labeling changes are mandatory for all selective COX-2 inhibitors and prescription NSAIDs.
  • OTC NSAIDs require label revisions and public awareness campaigns.
  • Aspirin and Paracetamol are specifically excluded from these mandated changes due to their distinct pharmacological profiles and risk-benefit considerations.
  • Emphasis on using the lowest effective doses and shortest duration across all NSAID use to minimize risks.

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