Recent result from trials and studies have shown that Merck vioxx, the wonder drug approved in 1999 by the FDA and prescribed to millions, results in an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in patients. Merck Vioxx is a Cox-2 Inhibitor, and was prescribed for the treatment of osteoarthritis, menstrual cramps, and adult pain management. The drug became so popular and widely used that Merck, the manufacturer of the drug vioxx, is reported to have made a n impressive $8 billion profit in the space of five years. However, on September 30th 2004, following indications from trials and tests, Merck Vioxx was pulled from the US market.
Merck has recalled Vioxx voluntarily following these results. However, there have also been a number of reports that Merck may have known about the dangers of vioxx several years ago but failed to take action and recall it at that time. The FDA is now assisting Merck in recalling the drug from the market, and is further looking into the results from the recent trials and studies. In the meantime, the FDA has issued a public health warning with regards to the possible risks associated with Merck Vioxx, and informing the public about the mass recall.
Following the issues relating to the Merck vioxx drug, the FDA has also announced that it will be strengthening its safety procedures for drugs that are to be marketed. Dr. Lester M. Crawford, acting FDA commissioner stated: Experience has shown that the full magnitude of some potential risks has not always emerged during the mandatory clinical trials conducted before approval that evaluate these products for safety and effectiveness. Occasionally, serious adverse effects are identified after approval either in post-marketing clinical trials or through spontaneous reporting of adverse events."
Merck's vioxx recall has spawned a number of allegations with regards to how long the manufacturer has known about these side effects. Merck officials have disputed these allegations, stating that the only conclusive evidence was presented recently, after which they have recalled the drug from the market. However, it is likely that, whatever the circumstances, this situation is going to result in a large number of lawsuits against Merck from Vioxx patients that have suffered ill effects and damages from taking the drug.
Following the recall of Merck vioxx, Merck shares have plummeted to their lowest since 1995. Merck shares dropped by nearly 38 percent when the drug was recalled. However, the shared dropped by a further 10.5 percent after reports in a couple of journals claimed that Merck knew about the side effects of Vioxx and failed to take the necessary action several years ago. Questions have also been raised with regards to the FDA approving the Merck Vioxx in the first place.
The worrying statistics and indications with regards to the risks posed by Merck vioxx means that many people may be entitled to compensation from Merck. Since the recall of the drug, a number of specialist lawyers have already taken on clients that want to file for compensation for ill health caused by taking the drug, and some are already in the throes of filing a vioxx lawsuit.
Even more recently, the FDA has posted the results of a study into Merck vioxx, and have stated that, compared to Celebrex - another Cox-2 Inhibitor approved in 1999 - Merck's vioxx increased the risk of "serious coronary heart disease" by 3-7 times.
