CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS CAUSED BY THE USE OF ETORICOXIB IN ELDERLY PATIENTS: LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Selective anti-inflammatory agents are widely used medications to treat various conditions; however, their use can trigger significant cardiovascular alterations. Given the high commercialization rate of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), this study aims to evaluate the cardiovascular effects of etoricoxib in elderly patients. This study constitutes a literature review, based on the databases SciELO, PUBMED, and Google Scholar. Studies published in Portuguese and English within the last 6 years were considered eligible. Selective COX-2 anti-inflammatory agents are associated with cardiovascular risk due to an imbalance between two enzymes, prostacyclin and thromboxane A2. Enzymatic inhibition interferes with vascular homeostasis, leading to endothelial dysfunction and pro-thrombotic events, affecting blood pressure regulation and contributing to the onset of cardiovascular alterations. The use of etoricoxib in elderly patients may increase the likelihood of adverse cardiovascular events, especially in individuals with pre-existing risk factors, as this medication disrupts cardiovascular homeostasis. The results indicate that the elderly population is vulnerable regarding etoricoxib use. Pharmacists play a crucial role in pharmacotherapeutic patient care, enhancing individuals' quality of life. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare professionals to be cautious when prescribing this medication, always assessing the risk-benefit ratio concerning the health of elderly patients.