Vioxx (Rofecoxib) Patient Information: Side Effects and Drug Images at RxList

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February 10, 2012

Vioxx

COX-2 Inhibitors »

What are COX-2 inhibitors, and how do they work?

COX-2 inhibitors are a subclass of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. Prostaglandins also protect the lining of the stomach and intestines from the damaging effects of acid, promote blood clotting by activating platelets, and also affect kidney function.

The enzymes that produce prostaglandins are called cyclooxygenase (COX). There are two types of COX enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2. Both enzymes produce prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever; however, only COX-1 produces prostaglandins that activate platelets and protect the stomach and intestinal lining.

NSAIDs block the COX enzymes and reduce production of prostaglandins. Therefore, inflammation, pain, and fever are reduced by all COX inhibitors. Since the prostaglandins that protect the stomach...

Read the COX-2 Inhibitors article »

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Vioxx

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Please Note: This Brand Name drug is no longer available in the US.
(Generic versions may still be available.)

Vioxx Patient Information Including Side Effects

Brand Names: Vioxx

Generic Name: rofecoxib (oral) (Pronunciation: row feh COCK sib)

What is rofecoxib (Vioxx)?

Rofecoxib (Vioxx) was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2004.

Rofecoxib is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Rofecoxib works by reducing substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body.

Rofecoxib is used to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and certain forms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis; to manage acute pain in adults; to treat migraines; and to treat menstrual pain.

Rofecoxib may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of rofecoxib (Vioxx)?

Notify your doctor immediately if you develop abdominal pain, tenderness, or discomfort; nausea; blood in your vomit; bloody, black, or tarry stools; unexplained weight gain; swelling or water retention; fatigue or lethargy; a skin rash; itching; yellowing of your skin or eyes;"flu-like" symptoms; or unusual bruising or bleeding. These symptoms could be early signs of dangerous side effects.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking rofecoxib and seek medical treatment or contact your doctor immediately:

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
abdominal pain, tenderness, or discomfort;
bloody, black, or tarry stools;
nausea or heartburn;
blood in your vomit;
unexplained weight gain;
swelling or water retention;
unusual fatigue or lethargy;
a skin rash or itching;
yellowing of your skin or eyes;
"flu-like" symptoms; or
unusual bruising or bleeding.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take rofecoxib and talk to your doctor if you experience

dizziness;
mild fatigue or weakness; or
diarrhea.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What is the most important information I should know about rofecoxib (Vioxx)?

Rofecoxib (Vioxx) was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2004.

The manufacturer of rofecoxib (Vioxx) has announced a voluntary withdrawal of the drug from the U.S. and worldwide market. This withdrawal is due to safety concerns of an increased risk of cardiovascular events (including heart attack and stroke) in patients taking rofecoxib.

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