Rofecoxib is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug developed to treat osteoarthritis, acute pain conditions, and dysmenorrhoea. Rofecoxib was approved as safe and effective by FDA in 1999. It was then marketed under the brand names Vioxx®, Ceoxx® and Ceeoxx®.

Rofecoxib quickly gained acceptance among physicians treating patients with arthritis and other conditions causing chronic or acute pain. Over 80 million people were prescribed rofecoxib at some time.

On September 30, 2004, Merck voluntarily withdrew Vioxx (and Rofecoxib products) from the market because of mounting concerns regarding increased risk of heart attack or stroke associated with long-term and high-dosage use.

There have been over 10,000 cases and 190 class action lawsuits filed again Merk in relation to Vioxx. Merck has reserved over $970 million to pay for its Vioxx-related legal expenses and isuses through the end of 2007.

Merck sales representatives and executives are being subpoenaed regarding selling Vioxx to doctors and patients who now claim the company knew of the side effects and are partially responsible for the wrongful deaths and illnesses.

Rofecoxib was available on prescription as tablets and as an oral suspension. If you or a loved one took Vioxx and suffered a heart attack, stroke, or death, you should contact an attorney for a consultation.