Medical Journal Corrects Fatal Vioxx Findings

Medical Journal Corrects Fatal Vioxx Findings

Source: Mercola.com

The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) published a correction "to make it completely clear" to their readers that 18 months of Vioxx use is not necessary to increase heart risks.

Heart risks from the painkiller, which was withdrawn from the market because of these concerns, can occur with just three months of use.

The correction could have major implications for the 13,000 lawsuits that allege Vioxx caused heart damage. One of the key defenses that Merck & Co., Vioxx's maker, has used thus far was that the drug did not cause damage if the patient only used it for a few months.

"Misinterpretation of the Data"

The journal's correction refers to an article previously published regarding Vioxx as a potential cancer treatment. The study's results prompted Merck to voluntarily withdraw the drug because it could "double the risk of heart attacks and strokes after 18 months of daily use."

The executive editor at the NEJM says that this is actually a "misinterpretation of the data," as heart risks are possible in much less time.

Previously, the journal also published an "expression of concern" regarding a separate Vioxx study, which reportedly failed to report all heart problems, thereby minimizing Vioxx risks.

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