rofecoxib

Definition of rofecoxib

rofecoxib (ROH-feh-KOK-sib): A drug that was being used for pain relief and was being studied for its ability to prevent cancer and to prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and a type of antiangiogenesis agent. Rofecoxib was taken off the market in the U.S. because of safety concerns. Also called Vioxx.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms