The Merck and Co. product Vioxx has caused quite a stir in the media since its discovered connection with various heart ailments in patients. Furthering the dilemma for manufacturers and victims alike, a new independent study has released information showing that Vioxx users have an increased risk of suffering from kidney problems, as well as heart injuries. The data, released on September 12 this year, was based on an analysis of over 116,000 patients in 114 clinical trials. The study’s documented results state that there is a strong association between the use of the dangerous drug Vioxx and “renal events”, meaning kidney failure and high blood pressure.
The study is sure to have a negative impact on the success of the drug manufacturer Merck, which is already facing a downward slope due to an avalanche of defective drug lawsuits from Vioxx’s connection to heart ailments. Of the impact of kidney-related problems in Vioxx, JP Morgan pharmaceutical analyst Chris Shibutani said, “Since few plaintiffs with renal injuries or arrhythmias have likely considered persuing a Vioxx suit to date, this study may provide the motivation to file.”
If you or someone you know has been injured due to a defective drug, feel free to contact a personal injury attorney for your questions and consultations. Jacoby and Meyers in San Diego, California have years of experience in drug liability law.
