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rofecoxib

A synthetic, nonsteroidal derivative of phenyl-furanone with antiinflammatory, antipyretic and analgesic properties and potential antineoplastic properties. Rofecoxib binds to and inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), resulting in an inhibition of the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins. COX-related metabolic pathways may represent key regulators of cell proliferation and neo-angiogenesis. Some epithelial tumor cell types overexpress pro-angiogenic COX-2.
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US brand name:Vioxx
Code name:MK 966
Chemical structure:4-[4'-(Methylsulfonyl)phenyl]-3-phenyl-2(5H)-furanone
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