Predictors of the selection of coxibs over nonselective NSAIDs in an older medicaid cohort

In this study in an older population, coxibs constituted almost two thirds of all initial anti-inflammatory prescriptions. The prescription of a coxib was influenced by concomitant anticoagulant use and chronic use. Blacks were significantly more likely than whites to receive a nonselective NSAID. Although coxib use has been affected by the association with cardiovascular risk that emerged after the period of this study, rational drug selection and reduction of racial/ethnic disparities remain important targets for improved quality of care.