Vioxx was created to combat the effects of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). When Merck introduced Vioxx in 1999 it was an unparalleled scientific breakthrough in this area. Vioxx was heralded as the future of pain medications and was rushed to the shelves by both Merck and the FDA.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are among the most prevalent chronic illnesses and leading causes of disability in the United States. The enzymes responsible for these two illnesses are named COX-1 and COX-2, and have been the target of arthritis therapy using nonselective NSAIDs. An understanding of the COX enzymes has allowed for the development of agents that specifically inhibit COX-2. COX-2-selective inhibitors work similar to NSAIDS, but have a lower potential for upper gastrointestinal injury, a serious side effect of nonselective NSAIDs. COX-2-selective inhibitors represent a significant advance in the treatment of arthritis and other related inflammatory conditions. Science has found that the ability to inhibit COX-2 while sparing COX-1 should provide therapeutic benefits in the management of pain and inflammation, without deleterious effects on the integrity of upper gastrointestinal tract. Vioxx is one such COX-2 inhibitor.

The chemical make-up of Vioxx allows for therapeutic benefits with less upper gastrointestinal injury, but it has been found to cause an increase in the chance of a heart attack or stroke. For these reasons, Vioxx has recently been pulled from the market. If you are a currently using Vioxx, or have used Vioxx in the past, be sure to speak with a Vioxx attorney about a possible Vioxx claim. Call 877-VIOXX-SUIT for a free Vioxx consultation with an experienced Vioxx attorney. Experienced Vioxx attorneys stand ready to help you through any Vioxx problems you may have suffered and will give you the personalized attention you need with your Vioxx claim.