Why is Vioxx® being withdrawn?
A Merck’s decision to withdraw Vioxx is based on new data from a trial called APPROVe (Adenomatous Polyp Prevention on VIOXX). The purpose of the trial was to assess the effectiveness of Vioxx 25 mg in preventing the recurrence of colon polyps (abnormal tissue growth, which may or may not be cancerous). In the APPROVe trial, Vioxx was compared to a placebo (sugar pill). The trial indicated an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, after 18 months of continuous treatment. The trial was stopped early.
