Vioxx was approved in June 1999 to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis. It can also be used to treat acute pain associated with menstruation. Vioxx is a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and is in the class of drugs known as a "Cox-2 Inhibitors". Vioxx works by blocking COX-2 enzymes in the body that trigger pain and inflammation. Since its approval, more than 20 million Americans have taken the drug at one time or another.

Vioxx's manufacturer, Merck & Co., pulled its best-selling drug off the market based on data indicating the drug increases the risk of heart attack and stroke among users. A voluntary worldwide withdrawal of the drug was announced after a three-year colon cancer clinical trial revealed that 18 months after patients started taking Vioxx, test results showed an increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications. In addition to heart attacks and strokes, Vioxx has also been associated with several other life-threatening side effects, including blood clots, angina and nonbacterial meningitis, severe intestinal damage, ulcerations and bleeding, and kidney damage.

Merck & Co. extensively marketed Vioxx as highly safe and effective, while minimizing its risks compared to other drugs on the market. Recent lawsuits question when Merck & Co. first knew about Vioxx's risk of fatal side effects and whether the company failed to inform public health authorities of the side effects in a timely manner. 

If you or a loved one have taken Vioxx and have experienced any serious side effects, please contact our lawyers today for a free claim evaluation. Contact The Law Offices of Paul Hogan, LLC today.

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