ISSN:
1432-1041
Keywords:
Key words Rofecoxib
;
Pharmacokinetics
;
COX-2 specificity
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Objective: Prostaglandin synthesis is catalyzed by a constitutive cyclo-oxygenase isoform (COX-1) and an inducible isoform (COX-2). It is hypothesized that the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nonspecific COX-1/COX-2 inhibitors) such as ibuprofen principally derive from COX-2 inhibition. The purpose of this study was to evaluate steady-state pharmacokinetics, biochemical selectivity and tolerability of rofecoxib (VioxxTM), characterized in vitro as a COX-2 inhibitor. Methods: Four panels of healthy men (n=8 per panel) were administered rofecoxib (n=6) (25, 100, 250, 375 mg) or placebo (n=2) once daily on day 1 and days 3–14. Blood samples for assays of rofecoxib plasma concentration and COX isoform activity were obtained pre-dose and at specified time points post-dose. Results: Rofecoxib pharmacokinetics were found to be complex and nonlinear. Elimination half-life ranged from 9.9 h to 17.5 h after multiple dosing with an accumulation ratio close to 2 for all doses. COX-2 inhibitory activity as assessed by average inhibition of whole blood lipopolysaccharide-stimulated prostaglandin E2 over the 8-h post-dose period on day 14 was 0.3, 67, 96, 92 and 96% for the placebo and the 25-, 100-, 250- and 375-mg treatment groups, respectively. No treatment group showed significant inhibition of COX-1 as assessed by thromboxane B2 generation in clotting whole blood. Side effects were mild and transient. Conclusion: The results indicate that rofecoxib is a potent and specific inhibitor of COX-2 in humans even at doses more than tenfold higher than those associated with efficacy in patients with osteoarthritis.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s002280050736
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