Leaked memo implicates Merck in Vioxx scandal
“New evidence has suggested that Merck & Co knew of the risks associated with the painkiller Vioxx before it was taken off the market. A leaked memo shows the company planned to reformulate the drug in 2000 to reduce its cardiovascular side effects.
“Merck & Co researchers are said to have become concerned over the safety profile of Vioxx following a study in March 2000, which found the drug to raise the risk of heart attack. Company scientists therefore considered combining Vioxx with another agent to reduce the chance of cardio events.
“The evidence comes from an internal memo between Merck’s researchers and patent department which was mistakenly given to plaintiff lawyers during one of the many legal battles over the Vioxx drug. Thousands of death and injury claims have been filed against the company in relation to the drug. Analysts estimate Merck’s total liability could amount to over $18 billion.”
Read more at Leaked memo implicates Merck in Vioxx scandal
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