Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Chemotherapy-induced Vascular Toxicity - Real-time In vivo Imaging of Vessel Impairment
Published on: January 7, 2015
Vascular effects of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs
Martin Soubrier1, David Rosenbaum, Zuzana Tatar
1Service de rhumatologie, hôpital G.-Montpied, BP 69, 63003 Clermont-Ferrand, France. msoubrier@chu-clermontferrand.fr
Abstract:
The effect of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on the risk of cardiovascular events remains controversial. Among NSAIDs, only low-dose aspirin exerts protective vascular effects. Low-dose aspirin has been proven effective for secondary prevention. For primary prevention, the usefulness of low-dose aspirin is debated, as illustrated by the differences in recommendations across countries. NSAIDs other than aspirin, whether COX-2 selective or nonselective, increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Among them, naproxen is associated with the smallest risk increase. In patients with a history of coronary artery disease, diclofenac seems to carry the greatest risk, but all NSAIDs should be avoided. Uncertainties persist about aspirin interactions with other NSAIDs and with proton pump inhibitors. An adverse effect of acetaminophen on the risk of cardiovascular disease cannot be completely ruled out.
Related Concept Videos
Antiplatelet Drugs: Prostaglandin Synthesis, P2Y12 and Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors
Prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, exemplified by the widely known aspirin, wield their power by irreversibly acetylating...
Acute Inflammation II: Local and Systemic Effects
Antianginal Drugs: Nitrates and β-Blockers
Organic nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, play a pivotal role. Once metabolized, they liberate nitric oxide, a molecular marvel. Nitric oxide triggers guanylyl cyclase and augments cGMP production. This biochemical cascade orchestrates the relaxation of vascular smooth muscles, ushering in vasodilation and enhancing coronary blood flow. Administered...
Cardiovascular Drugs: Classification based on Therapeutic Indications
Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Warfarin, a prominent vitamin K antagonist family member, exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1). By hindering this enzyme, warfarin...
Antihypertensive Drugs: Vasodilators

