Pfizer recently released the first commercial in more than two years for Celebrex, an arthritis pain drug infamously associated with increased risks of heart attack and stroke.
In 2004, the FDA urged that Celebrex be restricted to people who couldn't take other pain medications. The drug was permitted to remain on the market but given a "black box" warning label.
The new ad, which runs for two and a half minutes, candidly discusses the risks posed by Celebrex and other painkillers. But watchdog group Public Citizen says it makes Celebrex seem no more dangerous than over-the-counter pain medications, and has demanded the FDA halt the ad.
'Marketplace' Report: Celebrex Marketing [National Public Radio]
Image: Pfizer
