What are the Alternatives to Vioxx?

With the withdrawal of Vioxx from the pharmaceutical market, doctors and patients are left scrambling for alternatives to Vioxx.

PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN FOR INFORMATION ON MEDICATIONS AND ALTERNATIVES TO VIOXX.

The below is only informational, and is not offered as medical advice! Only your doctor can determine what pain killers will be right for you.

Vioxx is a prescription COX-2 selective, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that was approved by the FDA in May 1999 for the relief of osteoarthritis, for menstrual symptoms, and the management of acute pain in adults. Pain relievers called NSAIDs, work against two enzymes -- COX-1 and COX-2 -- that frequently cause inflammation and pain. Cox-1 is found in the stomach and Vioxx and its alternatives that attack it often cause upset stomachs and ulcers. Vioxx and Vioxx alternatives are known as a class of drugs called COX-2 inhibitors attack that sole enzyme, minimizing stomach side effects.

Are other alternatives to Vioxx safe? COX-2 drugs have the tendency to raise blood pressure, but only Vioxx has been linked to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Although there is now study showing that some alternatives to Vioxx also cause heart problems. For example, the study released in October 2004 regarding Bextra and heart surgery patients.

Two COX-2 inhibitor alternatives to Vioxx are sold in the U.S.