Vioxx (rofecoxib) was voluntarily withdrawn worldwide due to increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as heart attack and stroke. Vioxx—a COX-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)—is a prescription medication used to treat arthritis, acute pain in adults, and painful menstrual cycles. The drug manufacturer, Merck & Co., Inc., decided to withdraw Vioxx after study results showed an increased risk of heart attack and stroke after 18 months of continuous use. Although the risk of heart attack and stroke is small, you can take other medications.

If you take Vioxx, talk to your doctor about other options. More information is available from the FDA at 888.463.6332 or the Web site www.fda.gov/cder

More Information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
FDA Press Release
Vioxx Questions and Answers (from the FDA)

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Author: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Primary Medical Reviewer: Adam Husney, MD - Family Practice

Last Updated September 30, 2004