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As reported in the Los Angeles Times article on 2/19/05 'Suspect painkillers win fda panel ok', The fda advisory panel 'voted Friday, to let Doctors prescribe COX-2 painkillers, including Celebrex and Vioxx, but recommended stronger warnings about the risk of heart attacks and strokes.'

Even after Merck removed Vioxx from the shelves last fall, And even after Celebrex and Bextra have also been proven to increase heart attacks, stroke and death, the fda advisory panel now says that it is ok to sell these drugs and other COX-2 inhibitors, and they should only carry the "black box" warning.

To say that this is confusing and dangerous to the public is an understatement.

Because the fact of the matter is there are many people who naively think that if the fda approves something, it must be safe. They don't question this at all. They blindly follow the advice of their doctor and the fda. These are the people who are most at risk.

To quote the article,

'The panel proposed that Celebrex, Vioxx and Bextra, the third COX-2 drug cleared by the fda, carry the 'black box' warnings - the strongest admonishment the fda can give to Doctors.'

Let's look at the word Admonishment.

Admonishment ' as defined in The American Heritage Dictionary '

'To reprove mildly or kindly but seriously' and

'To counsel against something; caution'

Hardly a strongly worded 'warning' to give to Doctors. We're talking about heart attacks, stroke And death. This is not a 'watch your step' precautionary suggestion.

What the fda is telling the public is that it is ok to take this class of drugs and risk your health or even death. Long term use of COX-2 drugs can also raise your blood pressure.

The article also states ' 'In the case of Vioxx ' which was taken off the market voluntarily in the fall by its maker, Merck, after a company sponsored study confirmed the dangers ' panel members voted to approve its use by a margin of two votes.'

Does this really seem safe to you?

I'm not sure when you'll be asking yourself, 'Is the fda really looking out for my health?'

Are you aware that the COX-2 enzyme is a form of the cyclooxygenase enzyme and is produced by your body and plays an important role by helping to prevent blood clotting?

Why would you suppress this important function of the body with drugs?

Better, safer ways to combat pain and joint pain in particular exist which are less expensive and readily available without a prescription.

You can evaluate them with a Doctor who is knowledge- able about food, supplements and herbs and decide what is right for You.

Foods, supplements and herbs which you can easily incorporate into your diet to help reduce your pain and inflammation:

Ginger
Garlic
Hot Pepper
Turmeric
Rosemary
Oregano

Green Tea ' contains 51 inflammation inhibiting Compounds like salicylic acid and polyphenols.

Fresh cold water fish like salmon and sardines, which are highin omega-3 fatty acids which are a natural oil for your joints and help reduce inflammation.

Other foods which are high in omega-3 fats:

Grass fed beef which is also high in omega-3 fats

Nuts - Brazil, walnuts, almonds, pecans and hazelnuts. As well as seeds ' like sunflower seeds and flaxseed.

Mother natures supplements to ease joint pain and inflammation:

Glucosamine ' an amino sugar and key component of cartilage. Must be combined with the next 2 for best results.

Boswellin ' an Indian herb which reduces inflammation causing complex carbs

Msm ' Methyl-sulfonylmethane ' an organic source of the mineral sulfur.

The above 3 are best used together for optimum results.

Vitamins C and D ' both have been clinically proven to reduce osteoarthritis and joint stiffness and inflammation.

Fish oil tablets - also high in omega-3 fats.

You can even swim and exercise in water to go easy on your joints.

Now go out and take action to reduce your pain safely, Naturally and inexpensively.

Sources: Los Angeles Times 'Suspect painkillers win fda panel ok', February 19th, 2005.