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What is Vioxx?
Vioxx is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used in the treatment of generalized pain, As well as the treatment of inflammation and stiffness of arthritis.
How does Vioxx work?
In the body, 2 enzymes are called COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 helps regulate normal cell function in the stomach and blood. COX-2 plays a role in causing arthritis pain and inflammation by causing the release of specific compounds into the blood called cytokines. Cytokines are compounds that lead to pain and inflammation of joint tissue. VIOXX is a scientific breakthrough; the first product to target only the COX-2 enzyme. By inhibiting COX-2 those compounds that lead to inflammation and pain are inhibited from being released into the blood.
Are there any adverse reactions?
Serious but rare side effects that have been reported in patients taking VIOXX are delineated below :
- Serious stomach problems, such as stomach and intestinal bleeding, can occur with or without warning symptoms. These problems, if severe, could lead to hospitalization or death. Although this happens rarely, you should watch for signs that you may have this serious side effect.
- Serious allergic reactions including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat which may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing and wheezing occur rarely but may require treatment right away. Severe skin reactions have also been reported.
- Serious kidney problems occur rarely, including acute kidney failure and worsening of chronic kidney failure.
- Severe liver problems, including hepatitis, jaundice and liver failure, occur rarely in patients taking NSAIDs, including VIOXX. Symptoms of liver problems include nausea, tiredness, itching, tenderness in the right upper abdomen, and flu-like symptoms.
In addition, the following side effects have been reported: anxiety, confusion, depression, hair loss, hallucinations, increased levels of potassium in the blood, low blood cell counts, palpitations, pancreatitis, tingling sensation, unusual headache with stiff neck (aseptic meningitis), vertigo.
How should I use Vioxx?
You should continue to take VIOXX as prescribed even when you are feeling better. VIOXX can be taken with or without food. VIOXX capsules come in 3 strengths: 12.5, 25, and 50mg.
In Osteoarthritis, the recommended dose for VIOXX is 25 to 50 mg a day. VIOXX delivers 24-hour relief from a once-daily dose.
In analgesia and dysmenorrhea, the recommended dose for VIOXX is also 25 to 50 mg once a day. VIOXX provides relief through the day and through the night.
What about drug interactions?
If you are one of the many people who take low-dose aspirin for the prevention of heart attack or stroke, you can still take VIOXX. However, taking VIOXX and aspirin together can increase your risk for developing stomach ulcers compared to taking VIOXX alone. VIOXX is not a substitute for aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention.
Are there any other precautions when using Vioxx?
Do not take VIOXX if you :
- have had an allergic reaction such as asthma attacks, hives, or swelling of the throat and face to aspirin or other NSAIDs (for example, ibuprofen and naproxen).
- have had an allergic reaction to refecoxib, which is the active ingredient of VIOXX, or to any of its inactive ingredients.
More Information About Vioxx
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