Vioxx Glossary

Arrhythmia – An irregular heartbeat that can cause fibrillation

COX-1 – An abbreviated form of Cyclooxygenase-1, a chemical that protects delicate gastrointestinal tissue against harsh digestive acid

COX-2 – An abbreviated form Cyclooxygenase-2, which is an enzyme that causes pain and discomfort in inflamed and feverish tissues

COX-2 Inhibitor – A drug that selectively blocks COX-2 and leaves COX-1 alone, thereby relieving inflammation without causing stomach irritation and bleeding

Fibrillation – A serious medical condition; basically the heart muscle spasms out of control

Heart Attack – A cardiovascular event the death of heart tissue due to lack of oxygen

Myocardial Infarction – The medical term for a heart attack

NSAID – A Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammtory Drug, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, commonly used to reduce swelling and relieve mild to moderate pain

Stroke – A “ cerebrovascular accident” that results from lack of oxygen to the brain. Strokes are usually fatal or cause permanent long term disability

Vioxx – An NSAID that falls into the COX-2 Inhibitor category