Merck Considered Combining Vioxx With Another Agent to Reduce Heart Risk

According to MSNBC, researchers at Merck & Co. privately sought to reformulate Vioxx in 2000 in an effort to reduce its cardiovascular side effects. At the same time, Merck was publicly minimizing the impact of the study that revealed the heart risk concern. Researchers then suggested the patent department of Merck seek approval for a combination drug (a drug which would have combined Vioxx with another agent) to reduce the heart risk.

More Related Resources:

• 09/30/2004: Vioxx Recalled Worldwide
• 08/19/2005: Jury Finds Merck Liable in First Vioxx lawsuit
• 11/03/2005: Jury Finds Merck Not Liable in Second Vioxx Case
• 12/09/2005: Merck Withheld Pertinent Information About Vioxx