Vioxx

VioxxType: NSAID

Active ingredient: Rofecoxib

Common use: Vioxx is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used against pain and inflammation. It is a COX-2 inhibitor; it blocks and enzyme needed for the production of prostaglandins. Vioxx is commonly used to treat arthritis pain and menstrual pains.

How to use: Unless otherwise ordered by your doctor, Vioxx is taken with a full glass (circa 250 ml) of water. To reduce the risk of stomach upset, Vioxx is best taken together with food. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Vioxx.

If you miss a dose of THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time to take your next dose, skip the missed dose permanently and stick to your regular dosing schedule. Do no take two doses at once or near each other in time.

How to store: Store Vioxx at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, and keep away from heat, light and moisture.

Warnings:

  • Do not use Vioxx if you are allergic to aspirin.
  • Do not use Vioxx if you are allergic to NSAID’s.
  • Seek medical attention if you develop signs of an allergic reaction while using Vioxx, e.g. hives, rash, dizziness or breathing difficulties.
  • It is important that you keep or doctor and laboratory appointments while being treated with Vioxx.
  • Vioxx can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. The risk is especially high if you drink alcohol during Vioxx treatment.
  • If you drink three or more alcoholic drinks a day, discuss the risks and benefits of using Vioxx with your doctor.
  • Your reaction to Vioxx can be impacted by other medications; both prescription medication and over-the-counter medication. Be especially careful with other NSAID’s. Always consult with your doctor before combining Vioxx with any other medicine.
  • Contact your doctor if you experience itching, skin rash, swollen feet, swollen ankles or unexpected weight gain.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swollen hands, swollen face, swollen eyes, swollen throat, difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience black stools, vomit that looks like coffee-grounds or persistent abdominal pain.
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin, yellowing of the eyes, dark urine, pale faeces, fatigue and abdominal pain.
  • The elderly can be more sensitive to the side effects of Vioxx. Caution is recommended. Be especially vigilant against symptoms of stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
  • If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of Vioxx with your doctor. Vioxx is sometimes prescribed during the first and second trimester of pregnancy, if the benefits outweighs the risks. Vioxx should not be prescribed for the third trimester.
  • It is unknown if Vioxx is excreted in breast milk. Therefore, breast feeding while using Vioxx is not recommended.

Examples of reported side effects:

  • Stomach upset
  • Nausea
  • Flue like symptoms
  • Weight gain
  • Swollen hands
  • Swollen feet
  • Change in amount of urine
  • Stomach bleeding
  • Intestinal bleeding
  • Black stools
  • Vomit that looks like coffee-grounds
  • Abdominal pain
  • Liver or kidney problems with associated symptoms (see above)
  • Allergic reaction (see above)