Vioxx

Vioxx, (rofecoxib) Merck & Co., Inc. (website), is a NSAID with selective cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) inhibitory properties. It was approved on May 20, 1999, for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, for the management of acute pain in adults, and for relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Vioxx is used to relieve:

* Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis
* Acute pain in adults
* Painful menstrual cycles.

Serious problems from stomach ulcers, such as bleeding, are well-known complications in people treated with NSAIDs. Similar problems have occurred in people treated with Vioxx, although very rarely. The likelihood of stomach problems increases the longer you take drugs like Vioxx. However, even short-term treatment is not without risk. These problems can happen without any warning, but in some people may cause symptoms such as gnawing or burning stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomiting. If this happens, stop taking Vioxx and call your health care provider right away

Check with your health care provider. Vioxx may not be right for you, if you:

* have had ulcers or stomach bleeding
* have had asthma, hives, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
* have severe kidney problems
* have severe liver problems
* are pregnant

Serious problems such as liver damage have occurred in people treated with NSAIDs. Some of the warning signs of liver damage can be nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, itching, yellow coloring of skin or eyes, "flu-like" symptoms and dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your health care provider right away.

Vioxx can cause your body to retain fluid and swell. Your health care provider will decide if Vioxx is right for you, if you:

* retain fluids
* have high blood pressure
* have heart failure

Side effects can include:

* Upper respiratory tract infection
* Diarrhea
* Nausea
* Heartburn
* Swelling of the lower legs or feet
* High blood pressure

Rarely, serious ulcers have occurred in patients taking Vioxx.

Vioxx Links

(VIOXX) website

(VIOXX) Patient Product Information

JAMA Risk of Cardiovascular Events

Concerns About Popular Arthritis Drugs

Warning letter from Dept. of Health & Human Services to Merck & Co., Inc. about misleading promotional campaign and misrepresentation of potential health risks associated with Vioxx. (here)