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Key Painkiller Trials Optional Americans have recently learned that four popular painkillers -- Vioxx, Celebrex, Bextra and naproxen -- have been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. In 2001, scientists called for heart safety tests for these painkillers, but the FDA lacked the authority to require such trials. Hear NPR's Snigdha Prakash.
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Safety Concerns Hang over Popular Painkillers

Follow NPR coverage of the links between popular painkillers and heart risks.

Lack of Heart Trials Obscured Painkiller Risks

Heard on Morning Edition

Key Painkiller Trials Optional

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Americans have recently learned that four popular painkillers — Vioxx, Celebrex, Bextra and naproxen — have been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. In 2001, scientists called for heart safety tests for these painkillers, but the FDA lacked the authority to require such trials. Hear NPR's Snigdha Prakash.