The Case of Vioxx

After yet another study, "Merck & Co. pulled Vioxx from the market on September 30th indicating the popular pain reliever doubled the risk of heart attacks and strokes when taken for longer than 18 months" according to the Associated Press.
This clinical trial was a three-year study aimed at showing Vioxx’s benefits in
preventing the recurrence of colon polyps. However, the trial’s overseeing physicians halted the study because of the patients’ increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Merck, as well as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), advised patients, who are
currently taking Vioxx, to discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare providers.

A Look Back

Categorized as a "Cox-2 inhibitor," the FDA approved Vioxx in May 1999, for the reduction of pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis, as well as for acute pain.
Vioxx, along with Celebrex, was a new type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The Associated Press states "Studies done five years ago - when Celebrex and Vioxx were approved - suggest the same mechanism that inhibits inflammation and makes the drug easier on the stomach also blocks a substance that prevents heart problems."
When Vioxx was approved, Merck hoped it would lower the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding as compared to OTC pain relievers aspirin and ibuprofen. In order to apply to the FDA for removal of gastrointestinal warnings from the Vioxx product literature, Merck sponsored a large study comparing Vioxx to Celebrex.

Early Studies Revealed Problems

During the course of this early study, Merck found Vioxx had a four-fold increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes. These findings were reported to the FDA in June 2000. Further studies following this clinical trial confirmed these findings, resulting in the recent recall of the drug from the market.


Collaborating with Leading Investigator

We are working closely with a prominent Philadelphia personal injury law firm who is taking a lead role in investigating and filing Vioxx cases. In only a short time, this Philadelphia firm has filed lawsuits in New Jersey State Court for 86 people who have been adversely affected by taking Vioxx.
Since the defendant, Merck, is headquartered in Jew Jersey, the New Jersey judge - managing the Vioxx cases - ruled that out-of-state plaintiffs are permitted to file lawsuits there involving the Vioxx litigation.
If you, your family members or friends have experienced any side effects from taking Vioxx, such as a heart attack, stroke, blood clot, or pulmonary embolism, please contact us immediately.