Vioxx
On September 30, 2004, the manufacturer of the arthritis drug Vioxx, announced the voluntary worldwide recall of the medication. Merck & Co., the manufacturer of Vioxx, recalled the medication after a clinical trial that confirmed studies linking Vioxx to serious cardiovascular problems, including heart attack and stroke.
Vioxx is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is used to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It works by reducing substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body. It can help treat acute pain in adults, treat migraines and treat menstrual pain.
One of the main reasons for the Vioxx recall in 2004 was due to the alarming list of possible side effects patients were experiencing while taking Vioxx. These possible side effects range from mild to severe and included:
- Abdominal pain
- Tenderness
- Nausea
- Bloody, black stools
- Blood in vomit
- A skin rash or itching
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Unexplained weight gain
- Swelling or water retention
- Unusual fatigue
- Flu-like symptoms
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Dizziness
- Mild fatigue or weakness
- Diarrhea
Vioxx side effects can be severe and you should seek legal help if you or a loved one have suffered do to taking this medication. If you have questions and want answers, please call me today at 916-921-6400, 800-404-5400 or contact me here.