The Journal of the American Medical Association has linked
the popular and heavily marketed arthritis drug, Vioxx, to dangerous
blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.
Legal action against the drug's manufacturer, Merck is going
forward. The recent Vioxx study brings to light questions as
to when Merck was first aware that fatal side effects were associated
with Vioxx, and whether it failed to timely inform public health
authorities of these side effects. Additionally the heavy marketing
campaign may have resulted in over prescription of the drug and
led many people to use it without understanding its dangers.
Therefore legal action may be filed against Merck for failure
to warn, negligence and wrongful death.
Additional Dangers
There are other serious side effects associated with Vioxx.
These include: stomach and intestinal bleeding. These conditions
may come about suddenly with few or no symptoms. If left untreated
these stomach problems can lead to hospitalization or death.
Vioxx has also been linked to allergic reactions including swelling
of face, lips, tongue, and throat which can cause difficulty
breathing and/or swallowing. Serious kidney problems can occur,
though rare, they can include acute kidney failure. Symptoms
of liver problems include nausea, tiredness, itching, tenderness
in the right upper abdomen, and flu-like symptoms.
Legal Action
The Vioxx study has led to questions as to when Merck was
first aware that potentially fatal side effects were associated
with Vioxx and whether it failed to timely inform public health
authorities of these side effects.
One of the principal allegations in any likely lawsuit would
be whether any clinical evidence or reports from physicians of
serious side effects of Vioxx was withheld.
Additionally, Merck has extensively marketed Vioxx as safe
and highly effective, while minimizing its risks compared to
the other arthritis pain treatment drugs on the market.
In general, the types of damages sought against Merck may
include general and compensatory damages for: past and future
physical pain and suffering, mental anguish and physical impairment;
past and future medical, incidental and hospital expenses; and
past and future loss of earnings and earning capacity.
If you or a family member
have suffered serious side effects or a fatal injury such as
a heart attack or stroke after using Vioxx, you or the family
member may be eligible to file a claim against the drug manufacturer.
Contact an attorney below to discuss your legal rights at no
cost or obligation.
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