Vioxx®

Vioxx® was voluntarily recalled in September of 2004 by the manufacturer of the medication, Merck & Co., following serious concerns regarding the drug's health risks. A long-term study of Vioxx® revealed an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients taking the drug. As the health risks involving Vioxx® have been disclosed, many experts are expressing concern that there may be a link between Vioxx® and other COX-2 inhibitors, including Bextra® and Celebrex®, and serious cardiovascular events.

Vioxx® is in a class of medications known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Serious problems from stomach ulcers, such as bleeding, are well-known complications in people treated with NSAIDs. The COX-2 inhibitors were intended to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal problems in patients. Unfortunately, the likelihood of stomach problems increases the longer you take drugs like Vioxx®.

Patients using Vioxx® as a short-term treatment options have also reported side effects. These problems can happen without any warning, but in some people may cause symptoms such as gnawing or burning stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomiting.

Other serious problems, such as liver damage have occurred in people treated with NSAIDs. Some of the warning signs of liver damage can be nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of appetite, itching, yellow coloring of skin or eyes, "flu-like" symptoms, and dark urine.

Source: fda.gov

If you or a loved one has been harmed by Vioxx®, you may want to contact a Vioxx® attorney for more information.