BSR Statement on the MHRA’s Decision to Withdraw Co-proxamol
The British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) notes the announcement made by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) that co-proxamol is to be withdrawn following its review of the risks and benefits associated with the drug. The outcome of the review found that the risk of accidental death by overdose and the drug’s frequent use in suicide outweighed its benefits as a painkiller.
BSR is aware that patients taking co-proxamol will be concerned about the withdrawal of the drug given the recent removal from the market of Vioxx following safety concerns. A range of other pain relief treatment options are available and the society recommends that patients taking co-proxamol should discuss their situation with their GP or rheumatologist.
For more information please contact Lizzie Bloom, Policy Officer on 020 7242 3313 or lbloom@rheumatology.org.uk