Arthritis Drug Caused Woman to Sustain Multiple Cardiac Injuries, Suit Alleges

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Merck & Co., the company that manufactures Vioxx, is being sued by a woman who allegedly suffered cardiac injuries as a result of using the osteoarthritis medication. Judith Dorriety v. Merck & Co., Inc., No. CV-2003-844 (Ala. Cir. Ct., Tuscaloosa Cty.).

The suit, which was filed in the Circuit Court of Tuscaloosa, states that the drug maker knowingly concealed information regarding the drug's ability to cause cardiovascular-related adverse events in order to compete against Pfizer and Pharmacia, the companies that make Vioxx's rival, Celebrex.

As a result of the company's misrepresentations and failure to warn consumers and …