How is Vioxx different from other arthritis medications?
Unlike the traditional NSAIDs – such as Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Aspirin – Vioxx selectively blocks the COX-2 enzyme, while leaving the COX-1 enzyme alone. This is important because the COX-1 enzyme is essential in the protection of the stomach lining, and blocking it could lead to ulcers, bleeding, and gastrointestinal damage.
