Abet Chichi2

[tomtomboombang]

MRK, PFE, BAY
Pharmaceuticals-EMEA Cox-2 review results in label changes-

opinion @ HRNB negative
EMEA released its statement following its review of cox-2 drugs and plans to complete its review in April 2005. The available Cox-2 data show an increased CV risk associated with all Cox-2 inhibitors; additionally, EMEA sees data suggesting dose/duration associated with likelihood of suffering a CV event. Our view is Cox-2 products will remain on the market in the EU. We project use of Cox-2 products to decline following labeling changes being mandated; however, there is class of patients who benefit from Cox-2s that will allow class to stabilize and grow over time (1-2 years).