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drug_recall vioxxRecently, the concern over Vioxx side effects with regard to the cardiovascular system has been seriously called into question. During August of 2001, several studies were released that suggested that Vioxx side effects can heighten the incidence of blood clots, as well as lead to heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. While the risk remains small (less than 1% of those patients who use them), it is nonetheless a potentially very serious problems for certain individuals.
Generally, these studies compared the effectiveness and side effects caused by Vioxx, NSAIDs, and placebos. One study involving over 8,000 patients found that Vioxx side effects caused more than twice the risk of a heart attack or stroke as those taking naproxen. However, it should be noted that only 111 of these patients suffered a serious cardiovascular event. Using a control group, researchers concluded that Cox-2 inhibitors d id indeed double the risk of heart attacks.
Kidney Failure
One of the real concerns over Cox-2 inhibitors such as Vioxx is its potential to cause damage to the kidneys and even lead to kidney failure for a small number of patients. Many researchers and experts are not surprised by the association between kidney failure and COX-2 inhibitors. It is one of the more common side effects associated with all NSAIDs, which includes Vioxx.
The recent case of a woman who suffered from kidney failure was linked to her use of Vioxx and served as the catalyst for the concern over this problem.
Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke
Kidney failure is not the only concern associated with Vioxx. During the month of February, 2001, the FDA''s arthritis drugs advisory committee conducted a review in order to determine whether Cox-2 inhibitors increased the risk of heart attacks for patients. The review was, in part, in response to a study conducted by the manufacturers of Vioxx, Merck Pharmaceuticals, who had made the contention that Vioxx was safer on the gastrointestinal tract than other NSAIDs.
Several studies have concluded that taking Vioxx and other Cox-2 inhibitors more than doubled the risk of heart attack. Researchers from the Cleveland Clinic suggested that individuals who at high risk for heart attack and stroke should not use Vioxx.
Two reports released Wednesday reveal that Merck waged a deceptive promotional campaign for its top-selling painkiller Vioxx and disguised company studies as the work of outside scientists.
JAMA Studies
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The third-largest drugmaker in the U.S, Merck, agreed to settle a majority of their claims involving the painkiller Vioxx for $4.85 billion.
The settlement is reportedly the larg...
An Idaho state jury has found that the painkiller Vioxx contributed to the heart attack of a postal worker. The jury awarded him and his wife a multimillion-dollar verdict.
Frede...