Vioxx Health Risks and Drug Interactions

Vioxx seemed to be a safe alternative to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin that caused undesired gastrointestinal effects. However, as more research was performed on Vioxx scientists determined that the drug posed serious and potentially fatal health risks. It is for this reason that drug manufacturer Merck pulled Vioxx out of distribution in 2004.

Vioxx and Blood clots.

The most serious and well-publicized health risks presented by Vioxx use are of a cardiovascular nature. Vioxx use has been linked to the development of harmful blood clots that can cause deep vein thrombosis, stroke, and heart attack in patients. Other Vioxx health risks include fatigue or lethargy; skin rash; itching; yellowing of the skin or eyes; headache; abdominal pain, tenderness or discomfort; vomiting blood; nausea; bloody, black or tarry stools; weight gain; swelling or water retention; or unexplained bruising or bleeding. Finally, as with any other medication, there are health risks when Vioxx is combined with the use of other prescription drugs.

Vioxx Dangers.

The dangers of Vioxx may seem staggering. Evidence suggests that Merck endangered innocent lives by being aware of these risks years before ceasing distribution of the drug. If you or someone you care about has suffered from the health risks presented by Vioxx, it is now time to activate your legal rights. By working with a compassionate and experienced attorney you can achieve justice and receive reparations for the distress you have been subjected to.

Vioxx Drug Interactions.

The use of Vioxx in combination with other drugs can make them less effective or increase the likelihood of undesired side effects. Medicines that may interact in hazardous ways with Vioxx include aspirin, warfarin, lithium, ACE inhibitors, rifampin, methotrexate, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, enalapril, and lisinopril.

Patients should inform doctors of any other medication, non-prescription medicine, nutritional supplement, or herbal product they regularly take before being prescribed Vioxx. As with any drug, interactions with other chemicals may be unpredictable and harmful. In cases where Vioxx interacts with other drugs and undesired side effects occur, patients should contact their doctor immediately and receive medical attention.

If you or someone you care about has suffered as a result of Vioxx interacting with other drugs, it is important to be fully aware of your legal rights. Contact an experienced and dedicated Vioxx attorney to discuss your case today.