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Vioxx |
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- Description - |
Vioxx is a new kind of painkiller used in the treatment of osteoarthritis, painfulmenstruation (dysmenorrhea), and other types of acute pain. It is part of a class ofnonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) called "COX-2 inhibitors."Currently, the only other drug in this class is the new arthritis medicationcalled Celebrex.
Like older NSAIDs such as aspirin, Motrin, and Naprosyn, Vioxx and Celebrexare believed to fight pain and inflammation by inhibiting the effect of a natural enzymecalled COX-2. Unlike the older medications, however, these newer drugs do not interferewith a similar substance, called COX-1, which exerts a protective effect on the lining ofthe stomach. Vioxx and Celebrex are therefore less likely to cause the bleeding andulcers that sometimes accompany sustained use of the older NSAIDs.
Although COX-2 inhibitors offer many of the same benefits as aspirin, they donot share its blood-thinning effects. If you're taking low-dose aspirin to reduce the riskof a heart attack, you'll need to continue taking it in addition to Vioxx. |
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- Common Side Effects - |
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Abdominal pain,diarrhea,dizziness,headache,heartburn,high blood pressure,indigestion,nausea,respiratory tract infections,stomach discomfort,swelling of the legs and ankles |
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- Possible Interactions - |
Aluminum and magnesium antacids such as Maalox and Mylanta
Aspirin
Blood pressure medications known as ACE-inhibitors, including Capoten, Lotensin, andVasotec
Calcium carbonate antacids such as Alka-Mints and Tums
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Water pills (diuretics) such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL
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- Manufacturer - |
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Merck & Company Inc |
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US Human Health, PO Box 4-Wp 39-267 |
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West Point, PA 19486-0004 |
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USA |
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