Vioxx

Vioxx (rofecoxib) is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Vioxx is a prescription COX-2 selective and works by reducing substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever in the body.

Vioxx, manufactured by the phamaceutical giant, Merck & Co., Inc, is used to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and certain forms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis; to manage acute pain in adults; treat migraines; and treat menstrual pain.

Vioxx was originally seen as a breakthrough in pain relief for arthritis sufferers because it did not have the same side effects as other drugs.

Vioxx was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2004. This withdrawal was due to safety concerns of an increased risk of cardiovascular events (including heart attack and stroke) in patients taking Vioxx.

It has been estimated that Vioxx could have caused over 27,000 heart attacks or deaths since it was approved for use in 1999.

Following the $253 million (£141million) award given in 2005 to the widow of a man in America who took Merck’s once-popular drug, British claimants have now come forward. The drug is known to have been taken by more than 20 million people worldwide, including almost 500,000 patients in Britain, before it was withdrawn.

If you have been harmed by taking Vioxx you may have a case for a personal injury claim for compensation.

Seeing Red have a specialist legal team who will talk you through the process of making a compensation claim.