Rofekoksibi

Rofekoksibi is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as coxibs, which are selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. COX-2 is an enzyme involved in the production of prostaglandins, substances that contribute to inflammation, pain, and fever. By selectively inhibiting COX-2, rofekoksibi reduces the production of these prostaglandins, thereby exerting analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Rofekoksibi was developed for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions causing pain and inflammation. It was designed to offer pain relief and reduce inflammation with a potentially lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.

However, during clinical trials and post-market surveillance, rofekoksibi was found to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attack and stroke. This finding led to its withdrawal from the market in many countries in 2004, including the United States, by the manufacturer Merck & Co. The decision to withdraw was based on a comprehensive review of the available data and concerns about the benefit-risk profile of the drug. Subsequent research has continued to explore the cardiovascular effects of COX-2 inhibitors.