After Vioxx Withdrawal, Pfizer Says It Has Plans To Study Bextra, Celebrex

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NEW YORK - In the wake of Merck & Co.'s decision to voluntarily withdraw its popular arthritis drug Vioxx, drug maker Pfizer, Inc. immediately reaffirmed the safety of its two rival drugs, Celebrex and Bextra.

However, Pfizer has outlined extensive plans for future studies to confirm that the two drugs, which are in the same class as Vioxx, do not pose an increased risk of cardiac events among those taking the drugs.

In a press release issued immediately after Merck announced its worldwide withdrawal of Vioxx, Pfizer officials said they are confident in the long-term cardiovascular safety …