Company's questionable ethics

In 1999 Merck announced that Vioxx had fewer negative effects on the stomach than aspirin according to a recent study. However information revealed later showed that those findings were based only on the first six months of the study. Results for the following six months indicated that Vioxx didn't offer any greater protection against ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding than aspirin.

While Vioxx is generating record profits for its manufacturer, the ads are less than clear about the dangers. The drug companies claim, of course, that their ads educate the public about important health problems - problems that they just happen to have expensive new drugs to treat. In reality, the line between information and a sales pitch is deliberately blurred. These ads are designed to make you want the drug whether or not it's the best drug for you, whether or not it's the most cost-effective option available and whether or not you even need it at all. Moreover, these drugs are sometimes available only in relatively high doses, which may not be appropriate for your needs.

Vioxx is a COX-2 inhibitor, a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug approved for treatment of arthritis and other pain, developed particularly for patients who get stomach upsets and ulcers from drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil). Substantial research has shown, however, that the COX-2 inhibitors don't relieve the discomfort of arthritis any better than do aspirin and ibuprofen - generic drugs that are much, much cheaper than COX-2 inhibitors.

Doctors know that frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and COX-2 inhibitors can lead to high blood pressure and kidney disease. But they weigh the possible dangers against the patient need for pain relief. As a consumer, however, you cannot make these kinds of judgment for yourself because television ads are not required to mention risks, and print ads are allowed to list them in tiny type and highly technical language most consumers don't understand.

Two studies reported in a mid-2003 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association and the British journal Lancet have indicated that taking rofecoxib on a regular basis can lead to a 70 percent greater risk of serious heart disease. This risk is not mentioned in any promotional ads.

If you or someone you love suffered a heart attack, stroke or other injury while or shortly after taking Vioxx, report it to the FDA (FAQs) and contact a reputable law firm to discuss your legal rights.

If you need additional help, HendlerLaw will be glad to assist you. Call us 24 hours a day at 1-800-443-6353 or e-mail us at help@Vioxx-advice.com.