MSD China will launch Arcoxia (Etoricoxib), a new COX-2 selective inhibitor, on April 2 in ten Chinese cities.

Arcoxia is approved in 66 markets around the world for treatments of osteoarthritis, rheumatic arthritis, gout and acute pain.  In China, the product is approved for acute gouty arthritis, and its recommended dose is 120 mg.

MSD's MEDAL study with data from more than 23,000 osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients shows that Arcoxia has the same cardiovascular safety profile as conventional NSAID drug diclofenac, but better GI safety and tolerance at the same time.