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Wolferstans Investigating Vioxx
We have received instructions to investigate the side effects of the painkiller known as Vioxx.If you have taken this drug and feel you have suffered any adverse side effects or would like further information then please contact Stephen Hanbury of our Product Liability Team.
Vioxx, an anti-inflammatory drug also known as Rofecoxib, was withdrawn from global use voluntarily by its manufacturer Merck, on September 30th 2004, after new clinical trial results showed that it significantly increased the risk of serious cardiovascular events, in particular heart attacks, amongst users.
It was licensed for use in the UK in 1999 as a Cox-2 non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and the short-term relief of acute pain. It works by selectively inhibiting the cyclo-oxygenase 2 enzyme which is found at sites of inflammation in the body.
Since its withdrawal there has been a wealth of media speculation surrounding the litigious backdrop in which Merck has found itself, in particular the recent Court decision in the US. The Applicant, Carol Ernst, was awarded $253 million (£141 million) in compensation after the Texas Court decided that her husband’s death was caused by Vioxx. Although Merck are appealing this decision it is thought that Carol Ernst is just the ‘tip of the iceberg’ with thousands of more claims likely to follow from Applicants across the globe.