The Dangers of Using Vioxx

Vioxx is a prescription painkiller medication designed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, extremely painful menstruation, osteoarthritis and other kinds of acute pain. Vioxx works by fighting pain or inflammation by restraining the effects of an enzyme called COX-2.

Rofecoxib is the generic name of Vioxx. It is considered in the class of nonstaeriodical anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which reduce substances that cause pain, fever and inflammation in the body.

Vioxx is used to reduce stiffness, inflammation and pain caused by various kinds of rheumatoid arthritis. It is used in managing acute pain in adults, treating migraines and treating extreme menstrual pain. Vioxx is available in tablet and oral form.

Minor side effects of Vioxx, which are more likely to occur, include urinary and respiratory tract infections, abdominal pain, dizziness, diarrhea, headaches, heartburns, indigestion, nausea, high blood pressure, back pains, bronchitis, fatigue, sinus inflammation and flu-like symptoms.

Other side effects of Vioxx medication include difficulty, skin rash, water retention, fatigue, itching, nausea, tenderness, blood in your vomit, yellowing of the skin, breathing and swelling of the throat, tongue and face. When you experience any of these side effects, stop taking Vioxx and seek immediate medical attention.

Unfortunately, Vioxx has been reported to be dangerous. It has been pulled off the worldwide market because it was believed to increase the risks of stroke (cerebral vascular accident), liver problems, heart attacks (myocardial infarction) and pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs) – All of which can be fatal. Vioxx is also associated with intestinal and stomach bleeding, black stools and other stomach discomforts.

Merck, the manufacturer of Vioxx, voluntarily withdrew their Rofecoxib drugs from the U.S. and worldwide market. This is due to the safety concerns associated with cardiovascular disorders when under Vioxx administration.

Since 80 million people worldwide have used Vioxx in any time since it appeared in the market in 1999, many people have filed lawsuits against the company. Merck lost millions of dollars because the facts presented during most Vioxx trials showed that the company distributed and advertised Vioxx without accurately disclosing the potential dangers of the treatment.

Today, you can still send any unused Vioxx to the company for a refund. You could mail them to NNC Group, Merck Returns, 2670 Executive Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46241 or call 1-800-805-9542 and ask about the discontinuation of Vioxx or refund concerns.

If you need medications for rheumatoid arthritis, extremely painful menstruation, osteoarthritis and other kinds of acute pain, visit your doctor and ask for an alternative treatment for your condition.