Kimberly,

Vioxx or more the class of drugs, Cox 2 Inhibitors, were first used to treat various muscle sprains and inflamation. Over the years they have been refined and targeted for things like arthritis and migraines. They are grouped into a class called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Even more recently, because of their ability to restrict blood flow, many clinical trials have shown them to gradually reduce blood supply to tumors, in conjuction with other chemotherapy agents. The entire class of drugs, particularly Celebrex, have a plethora of precautions and side effects when taken regularly and should be closely monitored by a physician. Many of the clinical trials have been solely with terminal patients in an attempt to reduce pain and discomfort. Anyone with history of liver disorders are at a high risk with these drugs.

I recently had a prescription refilled for Vioxx and the insurance company refused to fill it and said you have to be a male, over 55, diagnosed with osteoarthritis to have it paid for by the insurance company. I guess I was a victim of profiling, huh?

Ed