VIOXX

Vioxx (Rofecoxib) is a prescription COX-2 selective inhibitor nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It was approved by FDA in May 1999 for the relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA), for the management of acute pain in adults, and for the treatment of menstrual symptoms. Vioxx was later approved for the relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults and children. It comes as a tablet and a liquid that is usually taken once a day orally with or without food.

NSAIDs are a large group of drugs that have pain-relieving (analgesic) and fever reducing (antipyretic) effects, as well as the effect of reducing signs of inflammation. NSAIDs have to be used long-term because the anti-inflammatory effects may take anywhere from a few days to three weeks to take effect. All NSAIDs work by stopping the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that contribute to pain and inflammation. Non-selective (traditional) NSAIDs like Ibuprofen, aspirin, Nabumetone and Naproxen work by inhibiting both the COX-1 and COX-2 forms of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme, while COX-2 inhibitors only block the COX-2 enzyme.

Merck & Co., Inc. voluntarily pulled Vioxx off the shelves worldwide on September 30th after a clinical study confirmed concerns that it raises the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems which can lead to serious and permanent injuries and possibly sudden death.

As a result of the Vioxx recall on September 30, 2004, serious questions and concerns regarding the serious Vioxx side effects, including the greatly increased risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious cardiovascular events. Were you a regular Vioxx user? If so, you should immediately have yourself checked for cardiovascular problems like congestive heart failure, angina, other heart problems, high blood pressure and other problems like kidney (renal) and liver problems or failure. If you are diagnosed with a condition that could have been caused by your long-term use of the Vioxx drug, contact us immediately. You may have a claim for a Vioxx lawsuit.