rofecoxib

Rofecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that acts as a highly selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase‑2 (COX‑2), an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in pain and inflammation. By selectively inhibiting COX‑2, rofecoxib reduces pain and inflammation with less risk of gastrointestinal ulceration compared to traditional NSAIDs that also inhibit COX‑1. It was developed by Merck & Co. and marketed under the brand name Vioxx for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute pain in adults, primary dysmenorrhea, and migraine attacks. Rofecoxib was withdrawn from global markets in September 2004 due to increased risk of cardiovascular events (heart attack and stroke) associated with long-term use[1][5][7].

Brand names

Vioxx

Other names

RofécoxibRofecoxibum3-phenyl-4-[4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-2(5H)-furanone4-[4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-phenyl-2(5H)-furanone3-(4-methylsulfonylphenyl)-4-phenyl-2H-furan-5-one4-(4-methanesulfonylphenyl)-3-phenyl‑2,5‑dihydrofuran‑2‑one