Frequently Asked Questions about Vioxx
Q: What is Vioxx?
A: Vioxx is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which reduces inflammation and relieves pain. NSAIDs work by inhibiting an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). Vioxx, along with the drugs Celebrex and Bextra, is a COX-2 inhibitor.
Q: Is Vioxx still available in the United States?
A: No. Merck & Co., Inc. (Merck), the manufacturer of Vioxx, voluntarily withdrew the drug from the market in the United States and worldwide on September 30, 2004.
Q: What was Vioxx used for?
A: Vioxx was used to reduce pain and inflammation. The US Food and Drug Administration initially approved it for osteoarthritis, menstrual pain and the management of acute pain in adults. It was later approved for rheumatoid arthritis.
Q: What are the most serious health concerns raised regarding Vioxx?
A: Vioxx has been linked to possible cardiovascular complications, including blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.
Q: What should I do if I think I have been injured as a result of taking Vioxx?
A: If you experienced unusual side effects after taking Vioxx, you should consult your physician immediately. Thereafter, you might want to contact an attorney experienced in product liability litigation to discuss your situation. Because Merck pulled Vioxx from the market in September 2004, the statute of limitations (the time period in which you have to file a lawsuit) may have already passed. This is an issue you can discuss with a lawyer.
Q: What kind of claims do individuals injured by drugs have against drug manufacturers?
A: A drug manufacturer has a duty to inform physicians adequately regarding the known risks associated with its drugs. If a manufacturer fails to do so, it can be held responsible to patients who are injured as the result of inadequate warnings, under a product liability theory. Drug manufacturers can also be held liable for injuries to consumers based on theories of negligence, or even intentional or malicious conduct.
Q: What is pharmaceutical liability?
A: Pharmaceutical liability is the term used to describe the legal consequences a manufacturer of drugs may face if its products injure people. Cases involving injuries caused by drugs, such as Vioxx, medical devices and other pharmaceuticals are a subset of products liability cases.
Q: I have heard that Merck settled the Vioxx litigation. How much will Merck pay?
A: On November 9, 2007, Merck, the manufacturer of Vioxx, announced that it had entered into a settlement agreement in which it agreed to pay $4.85 billion into a settlement fund to resolve qualifying claims. Under the terms of the agreement, Merck has not admitted any liability or wrongdoing.
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