Important Information For Patients
Taking VIOXX
September 30, 2004
Merck Voluntarily Withdraws VIOXX
Dear VIOXX Patient:
Merck & Co., Inc. announced today a voluntary withdrawal of
VIOXX®. This decision is based on new data from a three-year clinical
study. In this study, there was an increased risk for cardiovascular (CV)
events, such as heart attack and stroke, in patients taking VIOXX 25 mg compared
to those taking placebo (sugar pill). While the incidence of CV events was low,
there was an increased risk beginning after 18 months of treatment. The cause of
the clinical study result is uncertain, but our commitment to our patients is
clear.
Patients who are currently taking VIOXX should contact their health care
providers to discuss discontinuing use of VIOXX and possible alternative
treatments. In addition, patients and health care professionals may obtain
information from merck.com and vioxx.com or may call 1-888-368-4699.
Merck will reimburse all patients for their unused VIOXX. All dosage
strengths and formulations of VIOXX are affected by this voluntary withdrawal.
Information can be found at vioxx.com or at 1-888-368-4699.
Merck is notifying physicians and pharmacists and has informed the Food and
Drug Administration of this decision.
We are taking this action because we believe it best serves the interests of
patients. That is why we undertook this clinical trial to better understand the
safety profile of VIOXX. And it’s why we instituted this voluntary withdrawal
upon learning about these data.
Be assured that Merck will continue to do everything we can to maintain the
safety of our medicines.
Raymond V. Gilmartin,
Chairman, President & CEO
Please read the Patient
Product Information for VIOXX.
- Important Information for Patients Taking VIOXX
[PDF: 12 KB, 1 page]
This site is intended only for residents of the
United States, its territories, and Puerto Rico.
VIOXX is a registered trademark of Merck & Co.,
Inc.
PERSONAL INJURY / TORTS LAW DIRECTORY