Rofecoxib (Systemic)

Brand Names : Vioxx

Proper Use of This Medicine

For safe and effective use of this medicine, do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than ordered by your health care professional. Taking too much of this medicine may increase the chance of unwanted effects.

Dosing - The dose of rofecoxib will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of rofecoxib. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The number of tablets or teaspoonfuls of suspension that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are taking rofecoxib .

• For oral dosage form (suspension, tablets):
  • For osteoarthritis:
    • Adults - 12.5 to 25 milligrams (mg) once a day.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • Pain or menstrual cramps:
    • Adults - 50 mg to start and 50 mg daily as needed for up to five days.
    • Children - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If your health care professional has ordered you to take this medicine according to a regular schedule, and you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Keep the medicine from freezing. Do not refrigerate.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.