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Vioxx (Generic: Rofecoxib) is an NSAID Drug, Also
Celebrex and Bextra.
Approved by the FDA in 1999 for the treatment of
osteoarthritis, menstrual pain and the management
of acute pain, Vioxx is the trade name of the generic
drug rofecoxib.
Vioxx is a COX-2 selective, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drug (NSAID). Other COX-2 selective NSAIDs on the
market at this time are Celebrex (celecoxib) and Bextra
(valdecoxib).
Vioxx is considered to be effective for its indications
by the drug's preventing the formation of inflammatory
prostaglandins. Inflammatory prostaglandins are produced
by the enzyme "cyclooxygenase 2," sometimes
shortened to "Cox-2," which are believed
to cause inflammation and pain. They are also considered
to prevent blood cells from sticking together. Vioxx
is thus known as "Cox-2 inhibitors." Celebrex,
the trade name for clelcoxib and Bextra, the trade
name for valdecoxib are also "Cox-2 inhibitors."
It is not yet known whether the increased risks, including
for heart attack and stroke associated with Vioxx
are specific to Vioxx. Because of the common mechanism
of action, it is possible that like Vioxx, Celebrex
and Bextra may also be found to be associated with
the same adverse reactions.
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