Core evidence clinical impact summary for lumiracoxib in osteoarthritisLumiracoxib has a similar CV risk profile as ibuprofen, and a similar CV profile as naproxen in patients taking aspirin. Lumiracoxib has an increased risk of CV events compared with naproxen in patients not taking aspirin continued overleaf... AbstractIntroduction: The symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA) include joint pain, stiffness, and a reduced ability to perform normal daily activities, which result in decreased quality of life. There is currently no known cure or means of preventing the progression of joint damage due to OA. Therefore, treatment focuses on the control of symptoms, including the use of various agents [including nonselective and selective nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)] to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation. Lumiracoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor for the treatment of OA.

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Introduction: Asthma, a respiratory disease associated with airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide affecting both children and adults. Inhaled corticosteroids are considered to be the cornerstone of asthma management. Ciclesonide, an airway-activated inhaled corticosteroid, has been developed for the management of persistent asthma. Its once-daily administration and airway activation may be advantageous in the treatment of asthma.

Introduction: Effective antihypertensive therapy reduces the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease and death. Perindopril, a long-acting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, is an established antihypertensive agent administered as a once-daily tablet.

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes is increasing in prevalence worldwide and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, mainly due to the development of complications. Vildagliptin is an inhibitor of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4), a new class of oral antidiabetic agents. Aims: To evaluate the role of vildagliptin in the management of type 2 diabetes. Evidence review: Clear evidence shows that vildagliptin improves glycemic control (measured by glycosylated hemoglobin and blood glucose levels) more than placebo in adults with type 2 diabetes, either as monotherapy or in combination with metformin. Vildagliptin is as effective as pioglitazone and rosiglitazone, and slightly less effective than metformin, although better tolerated. Further glycemic control is achieved when adding vildagliptin to metformin, pioglitazone, or glimepride. There is evidence that vildagliptin improves beta-cell function and insulin sensitivity. Vildagliptin does not appear to be associated with weight gain or with a higher risk of hypoglycemia than placebo or other commonly used oral antidiabetic agents. Economic evidence is currently lacking. Place in therapy: Vildagliptin improves glycemic control with little if any weight gain or hypoglycemia in adult patients with type 2 diabetes when given alone or in combination with metformin, thiazolidinediones, or sulfonylureas. Since many diabetic patients require combination therapy, the complementary mechanism of action of vildagliptin and other commonly prescribed antidiabetic drugs represents an important new therapeutic option in diabetes management.