rofecoxib (Rx)

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

Rofecoxib selectively inhibits the enzyme COX-2. It reduces the production of prostaglandins associated with inflammation, providing relief from pain and inflammation.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Cough 

Headache 

Heartburn 

Sneezing 

Congestion in chest 

Fever 

Loss of energy or weakness 

Nausea 

Stuffy or runny nose 

Sore throat 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

None

Contraindication / Caution

Black Box Warning 

None

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: US FDA pregnancy category is C 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments 

Category C: There was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 

Category D: Adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence, these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

Rofecoxib selectively inhibits the COX-2 enzyme.  

COX-2 is responsible for the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, which play a role in inflammation, pain, and fever. 

Pharmacodynamics 

Prostaglandins are lipid compounds with various physiological effects, including inflammation, pain, and fever. 

Rofecoxib decreases the synthesis of prostaglandins associated with inflammation, leading to anti-inflammatory effects. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

Rofecoxib is well-absorbed after oral administration. 

Distribution 

Rofecoxib is distributed throughout the body. 

Metabolism 

Rofecoxib undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver. 

Elimination and excretion 

Rofecoxib is excreted in both urine and feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

Rofecoxib is taken orally, and it is available in the form of tablet, capsule, and suspension form. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: rofecoxib 

Why do we use rofecoxib? 

Rofecoxib is indicated for the treatment of osteoarthritis.  

Rofecoxib is also used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. 

Rofecoxib is used for the management of acute pain and Dysmenorrhea.