Vioxx (Rofecoxib) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, referred to as a cox-2 inhibitor. Since its introduction in 1999, physicians have prescribed Vioxx to treat arthritis, osteoarthritis, acute pain, migraines and menstrual pain.

Vioxx was pulled off the shelves on September 30, 2004. Its manufacturer, Merck & Company, voluntarily withdrew the drug after several studies showed that extended use of the drug subjected users to increased risk of heart attack and stroke. The most recent study showed an increase in blood clots linked to heart attacks and strokes among patients who used Vioxx for a continuous 18 months.

According to Merck, about 2 million people worldwide were taking Vioxx at the time of the withdrawal. A total of 84 million took Vioxx since its introduction. According to a physician involved with a 2001 clinical study, "it is possible that there are tens of thousands of patients who have had major adverse events" attributable to Vioxx.

With sales of Vioxx valued at $2.5 billion per year, Merck "valued sales over safety." Merck's mass consumer TV advertising ignored available data that Vioxx increased the risk for heart attacks and strokes, and its marketing minimized Vioxx's risks to physicians and the public.

About the Firm

Spangenberg, Shibley & Liber is a Cleveland, Ohio, law firm representing victims of Vioxx side effects and their families throughout Ohio. Our dedicated attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in pharmaceutical litigation. The lawyers have successfully handled many cases on behalf of victims against pharmaceutical manufacturers and medical products manufacturers. Some examples include the drugs Fen-Phen (diet drug), Thalidomide, Albuterol, and medical products like the Sulzer hip implants and silicone breast implants.

For more than 60 years, our lawyers have been actively committed to helping victims of negligence seek the justice they deserve. Our Vioxx team will strive to hold Merck accountable for the damages it inflicted on Vioxx victims and their families.

If you or someone you know has suffered serious side effects such as a heart attack or stroke from the use of Vioxx, call or e-mail the experienced attorneys at Spangenberg, Shibley & Liber LLP.

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