It seems that evidence continues to surface concerning Vioxx's
removal from the market. The drug, developed to reduce pain and
inflammation, was proven to double cardiovascular risks such as
heart attack and stroke. However, it has also been discovered that
Merck, the drug's manufacturer, was not so oblivious to these
adverse side effects after all.
One Denial After Another
In March 2000, Merck was first notified of the possible heart risks
linked to taking Vioxx. The findings were derived from a study focusing
on rheumatoid arthritis. Even though the drug showed to reduce the
risk of internal bleeding, it appeared to raise the incidence of
heart problems.
In May 2000, Merck was again notified of the drug's link to
cardiovascular risk. Though, instead of addressing the issue and
conducting trials to pinpoint the dangers of using Vioxx, Merck
executives rejected further studies.
Due to this lack of concern, or pure negligence, Merck faces Congressional
and Justice Department investigations, as well as potentially thousands
of personal-injury lawsuits. Regardless of the accusations against
them, Merck stands firm in its rebuttal, stating, "The company
acted responsibly, voluntarily withdrawing Vioxx as soon as it had
clear evidence the drug was harmful.
That was the understatement of the year.
In 2002, a study found that using Vioxx damaged the lipids in a
way that made them more susceptible to clotting. Further suspicions
were raised after one of the FDA's own scientists presented
evidence that Vioxx had been associated with over 27,000 heat attacks
or deaths linked to cardiac problems.
New
York Times November 14, 2004
ABC
News November 12, 2004
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