Vioxx Litigation
For over two years prior to Merck’s September 30th 2004 withdrawal of the arthritis medication Vioxx , the Teaneck law firm of Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. has been building a case against Vioxx’s manufacturer, Merck & Co. Prior to Merck’s announcement, Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. was actively litigating these product liability cases against the pharmceutical giant. The law firm has achieved national prominence in this area as a result of the law firms early efforts in this case.
By way of backgound, Vioxx® is used to reduce pain and inflammation often associated with arthritis. It is a nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in a tablet and liquid form. The Food and Drug Administration approved it for human use in 1999 for the treatment of osteoarthritis, primary dysmenorrhea, and acute pain management in adults.
One of the initial reasons for the popularity of Vioxx is the manufacturer’s claim of minor side effects as compared to other pain medications. Even though side effects are considered to be minor by the manufacturer, Vioxx is now being blamed for causing blood clots, hearts attacks, and strokes. Additionally, use is cautioned under many circumstances. People who are generally hypersensitive to aspirin and other NSAIDs are likely to be sensitive to Vioxx component ingredients.
Common of side effects of Vioxx include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Stomach and intestinal bleeding
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, and throat
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
Potential Injuries include:
- Stroke
- Heart Attack
- Blood Clots
Commonly, arthritis-related pain and other similar aches have often been treated with NSAIDs. The reason for the popularity is the effectiveness of this particular family of pharmaceuticals. However, the effectiveness is balanced with some risk. Annually, more than 10,000 deaths result from the use of NSAIDs in the United States. This is thought to be approximately one-tenth of the number of injuries requiring hospitalization. Of this number, gastrointestinal injuries are often the most severe. These injuries occur because NSAIDs block enzyme production, which encourages gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers. Other potential injuries include blood clots, hearts attacks, and strokes.
If you need assistance with a Vioxx®-related injury, contact Sam Davis, Esq. at Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C.
