Please Note: This drug was removed from the US Market in September 2004.

Medications and Drugs

Causes of Fatigue Slideshow Is Sleepiness Hurting You?

GENERIC NAME: ROFECOXIB - ORAL (row-feh-COX-ib)

BRAND NAME(S): Vioxx

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), specifically a COX-2 inhibitor, which relieves pain and swelling (inflammation). It is used to treat arthritis, acute pain, acute migraine attacks (with or without aura), and menstrual pain and discomfort. This drug works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain and swelling. This drug has been withdrawn from the U.S. market due to safety or effectiveness problems.

HOW TO USE: Take by mouth, generally once daily, or as directed by your doctor. To decrease the chance of stomach upset, this drug is best taken with food. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 oz or 240 ml) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. In certain conditions (e.g., arthritis), it may take up to two weeks, taken regularly, before significant benefits of this drug take effect. If you are taking this drug on an "as needed" basis (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has significantly worsened, the medicine may not work as well. Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Review the leaflet with each refill in case there is any new information.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset or tiredness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unexplained weight gain, swelling of the hands or feet, change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: severe headache, very stiff neck, mental/mood changes. This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. If you notice any of the following highly unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking rofecoxib and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, persistent stomach/abdominal pain. This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. If you notice any of the following highly unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking rofecoxib and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, unusual fatigue. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.