Journal of Natural Health Oct 99 v5#4 6018.10

In the last issue of The Journal of Natural Health, we urged consumers to take a cautious approach when considering whether to use the new Cox-2 inhibitor class of drugs. The first in a long-awaited new type of painkiller for millions of arthritis sufferers was approved in December 1998 by the Food and Drug Administration.
We first reported that the FDA had cautioned the stomach-safe benefits for this new painkiller may have been overplayed and that it will bear the same warning about side-effects as many of today's standard painkillers.

Red Flag Caution Urged
The new Cox-2 inhibitor drugs have been linked to 10 deaths and 11 cases of gastrointestinal hemorrhage in their first three months on the market, according to a recent report in The Associated Press. Half of the 10 people who died suffered from gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, according to reports submitted to the FDA that were obtained by The Wall Street Journal under the Freedom of Information Act. Two other deaths were attributed to heart attacks, one to drug interaction, one to a kidney disorder and one with no cause of death listed.
This raises the level of concern to a red-flag warning. Unless you and your doctor are convinced that the benefits of Cox-2 inhibitors outweigh their risks, you should consider alternatives.

Scientifically Validated Alternatives
In our own research we have several medically validated natural alternatives to which our readers can turn for assured safety and excellent clinical efficacy.

The Arthrivive^Ž Alternative
Arthrivive contains a blend of ingredients that, on an individual basis, have been the subject of more than 20 clinical trials. When it comes to supporting the health of the body’s joint structures, Arthrivive does so without complications or drug interactions. Use Arthrivive for healthy joint support.
    Glucosamine sulfate in Arthrivive is the most common natural supplement for osteoarthritis today with more than 20 clinical trials on this substance alone.
    Bromelain with vitamin C together is a natural combination that can help to support normal, healthy musculoskeletal function.
    Arthivive won’t necessarily work as fast as the other painkiller drugs, but over the long run the formula is much safer and also very effective.

What Do I Tell My Doctor?
Because the Arthrivive formula is an all natural, safe alternative to prescription medications without any known drug interactions, many people use it without medical advice from their doctor or other health professional. In many cases, this is acceptable.
    Other people, however, may find it more beneficial to work with their doctor or other health professional who can help them to plan a specific, comprehensive program based on their individual need. Your informed health care advisor can help you to measure your progress with objective benchmarks by measuring quantitative improvements in mobility and freedom from discomfort.
    What’s more, you can work with a health professional if you are presently taking a new Cox-2 inhibitor or other medical painkiller to possibly taper off your dosage.
    Still, if you are on a medical drug or involved in any medical procedures or have any possible health concerns, it is always best to talk with a trusted, qualified health care professional.
    For extra help and relief, Whitewing Labs also suggests using Arthrivive^Ž Cream. This topical pain-relieving gel with capsaicin is different from other pain relieving gels, creams, and ointments. Its natural ingredients provide temporary relief from the discomforts of backaches, tendonitis, arthritis and rheumatism. Apply as directed, and you may experience noticeable improvement within minutes. And, unlike other products, there is a clean smell to this cream.
    Order Arthrivive and Arthrivive Cream separately, or together in the Arthritis Package, available by turning to the order form in the center of this journal.

10	Whitewing Labs, Inc.	Journal of Natural Health, October 1999
*By Richard Huemer, M.D.*	Stronger Warnings Urged for New Painkillers