Cox-2 Inhibitors and NSAIDs

Note: Vioxx® is a dangerous drug. It was pulled from the market on September 30, 2004, after a study concluded that Vioxx®, in at least 15 cases, was linked to stroke and heart attack. At the time of the recall, millions of people around the globe were taking the drug, so Merck & Co Inc. took a major financial hit. Former Vioxx® users are encouraged to see their physicians to discuss alternatives and to see a Vioxx® attorney in to find out if they have a lawsuit.

About COX-2 Inhibitors

COX-2 inhibitors are a new class of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) that relieve pain and inflammation by blocking COX-2 enzymes in the body. Vioxx® falls into this category. NSAIDs were created for people who cannot take traditional NSAIDs, which can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding in some patients. Traditional NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, block both COX-2 and COX-1 enzymes. Because COX-1 enzyme protects the lining of the stomach, blocking it can lead to stomach irritation. It is believed that COX-2 inhibitors (including Vioxx®) reduce the incidence of stomach ulcers and bleeding because they do not block COX-1 enzymes.

However, it is suggested that COX-2 inhibitors do more harm than good. The drugs - namely Celebrex® and Vioxx®, both of which are not available in generic form - have been linked to a myriad of serious health problems - especially Vioxx®. In fact, Vioxx®, which was FDA - approved in May 1999 and manufactured by Merck & Co., was pulled from the shelves on September 30, 2004 amidst evidence that it seriously increases risk of heart attack and stroke in many cases. Vioxx® is also linked to kidney damage.

Contact your medical professional today to learn more about Vioxx® and other COX-2 inhibitors. If you believe you have a potential Vioxx® lawsuit, please consult a Vioxx® attorney today.

About Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Vioxx®

Essentially, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are increased-strength painkillers designed to treat severe, chronic pain, such as that associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other ailments. Many such NSAIDs, including Vioxx®, have been determined to cause serious side effects, ranging from stomach bleeding, stomach ulcers, intestinal bleeding, heart complications, and even death. However, Vioxx® (and its competitors Celebrex® and Bextra®) claimed to successfully treat pain without such drawbacks. But as a recent study put forth by Merck & Co attests, this just isn't the case. In fact, Vioxx® users are believed to be twice as likely as nonusers to suffer strokes, heart attacks, and blood clots and are still susceptible to other health ailments, ranging from kidney damage to hypertension.

What To Do If You Have a Vioxx® Lawsuit Related to Stroke or Heart Attack

If you are currently taking Vioxx®, it is imperative that you stop taking the drug immediately and see a doctor as soon as possible. A doctor will be able to evaluate your condition and suggest alternatives to Vioxx®.

You may also want to contact a Vioxx® attorney who specializes in pharmaceutical litigation. A pharmaceutical litigation attorney can explain your rights and help you bring forth an effective Vioxx® lawsuit.

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