Vioxx â Side-Effects, Safety and Recall Information

Merck & Co., Inc. announced a voluntary withdrawal of Vioxx (rofecoxib) from the U.S. and worldwide market due to safety concerns of an increased risk of cardiovascular events (including heart attack and stroke) in patients on Vioxx. Prior to withdrawal of Vioxx, the following side-effects had been noted:

· upset stomach
· dizziness
· heartburn
· vomiting
· constipation
· bloody vomit
· bloody diarrhea or black, tarry stools
· swelling of the face, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
· unexplained weight gain
· fatigue, unusual tiredness
· yellowing of the skin or eyes
· right upper abdominal pain
· flu-like side-effects
· skin rash
· itching

*Vioxx® was marketed by Merck for pain relef from osteoarthritis before Vioxx was withdrawn because of safety concerns. The active ingredient in Vioxx® is rofecoxib.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is not meant to be medical advice nor to act as a substitute for medical advice. Serious side-effects, including death, could result if one were to take any prescription medicine without the supervision of a physician.