N.J. Judge Sets Timeline, Parameters for Next Series of Vioxx Trials

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. - The next group of Vioxx cases to proceed to trial in New Jersey will be limited to those that allege injury as a result of taking the drug for more than 18 months, according to the judge who is presiding over the cases.

Judge Carol E. Higbee announced during a recent meeting of counsel in the nearly 3,500 cases consolidated in Atlantic County Superior Court that the next seven trials will weigh claims by so-called long-term Vioxx users. Merck has argued that studies show no increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients taking Vioxx for fewer …