Isomeric acetoxy analogues of rofecoxib: A novel class of highly potent and selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors

A group of isomers possessing a 2-, 3-, or 4-acetoxy moiety on the 3-phenyl substituent of rofecoxib were synthesized that exhibit highly potent, and selective, COX-2 inhibitory activity that have the potential to acetylate the COX-2 isozyme.