Generic
Rofecoxib
7 brands available in the market
At a glance
Rofecoxib is a COX-2 inhibitor NSAID used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, and menstrual pain. It reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis with fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
Description
Rofecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis and inflammation. It has minimal effect on COX-1, resulting in fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
Indications
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Acute pain relief (migraine, menstrual pain)
Pharmacological class
Selective COX-2 Inhibitor
Pharmacology
Rofecoxib selectively inhibits COX-2 enzyme, responsible for prostaglandin synthesis in inflammation. With minimal COX-1 inhibition, it has fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits COX-2 enzyme, reducing prostaglandin synthesis and inflammation.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Osteoarthritis: 12.5 mg/day (max 25 mg/day)
- Rheumatoid arthritis: 25 mg/day
- Acute pain: 50 mg/day (first dose); then 25-50 mg/day (not more than 5 days)
- Hepatic impairment: max 12.5 mg/day
Administration
- Take with or without food (fixed time is better)
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Drug interactions
- Anticoagulants (warfarin): Increased bleeding risk
- Antiplatelets (aspirin): Increased bleeding risk
- ACE inhibitors: May reduce efficacy
- Diuretics: Reduced efficacy and increased renal toxicity risk
Food interactions
Alcohol is unsafe with Rofecoxib (increases ulcer and bleeding risk).
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to rofecoxib or any component
- Severe renal impairment
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Peripheral edema
- Dizziness and headache
- Dyspepsia and indigestion
- Increased blood pressure
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe; animal studies show harmful effects; use only if clearly needed; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Information not available; consult your doctor.
Precautions & warnings
- Do not use in patients with recent heart attack
- Caution in history of peptic ulcer or GI bleeding
- Caution in hypertension, heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Do not use in pregnancy, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- Monitor liver function during long-term therapy
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children.
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients; dose adjustment may be needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Avoid in severe kidney disease; limited information; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in mild liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed; avoid in moderate-severe liver disease; consult your doctor.
Overdose effects
Limited overdose information; excessive doses may cause GI and kidney issues; consult your doctor.
Therapeutic class
NSAID (COX-2 Inhibitor)
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Rofecoxib