Valdecoxib.

Valdecoxib is a selective COX-2 inhibitor that is similar in anti-inflammatory activity to the other selective COX-2 inhibitors (e.g., celecoxib and rofecoxib). Valdecoxib is at least equally as effective as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but is safer in terms of gastrointestinal toxicity. Valdecoxib is also indicated for treatment of dysmenorrhea and useful in other pain conditions. There have been no head-to-head comparisons of valdecoxib and celecoxib or rofecoxib in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or various pain conditions.