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July 14th, 2004

"Vioxx Risks Continue to Cause Concern"

Adverse Vioxx side effects, including high blood pressure, swelling and other problems continue to have mounting evidence displaying an increased risk when compared to other NSAID drugs. Over the last couple months there have been several studies suggesting possible Vioxx health problems, even when taking the popular pain reliever at recommended lower doses. Now the latest study has raised new concerns that a high rate of misuse amongst Vioxx users exists.

According to Vanderbilt University researchers, patients are routinely prescribed the highest 50-milligram dose of Vioxx for everyday problems, despite recommendations against 50-milligram doses for more than five days. There is an absence of evidence showing that higher Vioxx doses are more effective than recommended 25 milligram doses, though evidence does exist indicating higher Vioxx doses increase risks of adverse effects.

In pre-licensing Vioxx studies, Vioxx users taking 50 milligram doses, when compared to other NSAID drugs at the same dose, suffered twice as many instances of high blood pressure during the first six months of use. The Vioxx users were also one and a half times more likely to develop leg swelling because of fluid retention. A number of studies have been supporting evidence that Vioxx, especially at 50-milligram doses, is more harmful than other NSAID drugs.

Recent studies have also reported increased risk for heart failure among elderly people using Vioxx and a greater likelihood of developing high blood pressure and leg swelling when compared to Vioxx rival drug Celebrex. Patients should never discontinue or change medication instructions without first discussing it with their healthcare professionals. Especially if prescribed 50-milligram doses of Vioxx, patients are encouraged to discuss other treatment options with lower risk of adverse effects.