VIOXX

Who is Vioxx for ?

Rofecoxib is used to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis. It is also used to relieve minor pain, headache, and menstrual pain and discomfort.

When should I be careful taking Vioxx ?

Before taking rofecoxib,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to rofecoxib, aspirin or other medications for pain or arthritis, or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially anticoagulants (''blood thinners'') such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Vioxxn), cimetidine (Tagamet), diuretics (''water pills''), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), methotrexate, moexipril (Univasc), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane), trandolapril (Mavik), any medications for high blood pressure, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver, heart, or kidney disease; high blood pressure; asthma; or an ulcer or any stomach problems or diseases.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking rofecoxib, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking rofecoxib.

Side Effects

Although side effects from rofecoxib are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• dizziness
• heartburn
• vomiting
• constipation

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• bloody vomit
• bloody diarrhea or black, tarry stools
• swelling of the face, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• unexplained weight gain
• fatigue, unusual tiredness
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• right upper abdominal pain
• flu-like symptoms
• skin rash
• itching