Vioxx
Vioxx is a COX-2 selective, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve signs and symptoms of arthritis, acute pain in adults, and painful menstrual cycles. It directly targets cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an enzyme responsible for inflammation and pain.
In the years that Vioxx was on the market, from 1999 to 2004, an estimated 20 million people in the United States used it, and some 100 million Vioxx prescriptions were written worldwide. During that time, Merck, Vioxx's manufacturer, had annual sales of $2.5 billion, making Vioxx not only a blockbuster drug, but also a key to the company's financial success. One commentator has noted that these figures demonstrate not only the large number of people who have potentially been damaged by Vioxx, but also explain why Merck kept this drug on the market for much longer than was prudent.
Vioxx became a popular drug because, unlike many other NSAIDs, it did not cause significant gastrointestinal side effects. As became increasingly apparent, however, Vioxx carried significant cardiovascular risks for its users. Although Merck voluntarily withdrew Vioxx from the market, the withdrawal came amid controversy about what and when Merck knew about those cardiovascular risks. The withdrawal also called into question the independence and efficacy of the FDA.
If you or someone you know has been injured while taking Vioxx call our office today. Our experienced team of attorneys will properly evaluate your case. 619.615.0767
In the years that Vioxx was on the market, from 1999 to 2004, an estimated 20 million people in the United States used it, and some 100 million Vioxx prescriptions were written worldwide. During that time, Merck, Vioxx's manufacturer, had annual sales of $2.5 billion, making Vioxx not only a blockbuster drug, but also a key to the company's financial success. One commentator has noted that these figures demonstrate not only the large number of people who have potentially been damaged by Vioxx, but also explain why Merck kept this drug on the market for much longer than was prudent.
Vioxx became a popular drug because, unlike many other NSAIDs, it did not cause significant gastrointestinal side effects. As became increasingly apparent, however, Vioxx carried significant cardiovascular risks for its users. Although Merck voluntarily withdrew Vioxx from the market, the withdrawal came amid controversy about what and when Merck knew about those cardiovascular risks. The withdrawal also called into question the independence and efficacy of the FDA.
If you or someone you know has been injured while taking Vioxx call our office today. Our experienced team of attorneys will properly evaluate your case. 619.615.0767