Stepping into the Vioxx void

(Reviewed/revised April 2005)

Answers to four questions after the popular pain reliever was yanked off the market.

In September 2004, Merck announced that it was pulling rofecoxib (Vioxx) off the market. The decision came after an interim analysis of a colon polyp prevention trial showed that twice as many people taking the drug had a heart attack or stroke as those taking a placebo.

To continue reading this article, you must login.
  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »