About Vioxx, Its Side Effects, Its Recall, and How Our Lawyers Can Help

Vioxx® was the subject of a recall on September 30, 2004 after studies linked it to a number of side effects , including an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and blood clots. Contact one of our national Vioxx® lawyers to learn more.

Vioxx®

Vioxx® was created to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Like Celebrex®, Vioxx® has been linked to a number of adverse side effects and is a COX-2 inhibitor drug (a class of NSAID). COX-2 inhibitor drugs block the COX-2 enzyme, which causes arthritic pain, without blocking the COX-1 inhibitor enzyme, which coats and protects the stomach. Traditional NSAIDs block both of these enzymes, thereby causing stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, and other gastrointestinal problems.

The problem with Vioxx® and some other Cox-2 inhibitors is that they not only DO NOT prevent gastrointestinal problems, but they may also increase users' risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood clots. In fact, so great is that risk that Vioxx® was the subject of a recall on September 30, 2004 by its manufacturer, Merck & Co Inc., after a three-year study revealed that Vioxx® at least doubled the risk of such side effects in users. Vioxx® users are susceptible within 18 months of taking the drug. If you have taken Vioxx® and experienced adverse side effects , it is imperative that you contact a doctor and consult with one of our national Vioxx® lawyers immediately.

The FDA and Vioxx®

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) did not order the Vioxx® recall, although it did release a public health advisory to patients, in which it asked that people using Vioxx® - especially those who experienced side effects - stop using the drug immediately and see a physician to discuss alternative medications. Some viable alternatives to Vioxx® include Bextra® and Celebrex®.

If you experienced any of these known Vioxx® side effects while taking Vioxx®, see a doctor immediately for a medical evaluation and then contact one of our national Vioxx® lawyers.

• Blood clots
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Upper respiratory infection
• High blood pressure
• Swelling in the lower extremities
• Fluid retention
• Stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal problems (signaled by burning stomach pain, black stools, and vomiting)
• Liver damage (signaled by fatigue, dark urine, loss of appetite, itching or rash, jaundice, flu-like symptoms)

To learn more about Vioxx® or another arthritis drug, consult your medical provider or speak with one of our national Vioxx® lawyers.

• Arava
• Arthritis Drug Side Effects
• Arthritis Drug FAQs
• Arthritis Drug News
• Arthritis Drug List
• Arthritis Links
• Arthritis Drug Glossary
• Site Map