Vioxx

Vioxx, or rofecoxib, was a medication used to relieve pain and inflammation, particularly in arthritis patients. Approved in 1999, it was popular due to its effectiveness and fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional painkillers. However, studies later revealed that Vioxx significantly increased the risk of heart attack and stroke. As a result, the drug was withdrawn from the market in 2004. The case raised important concerns about drug safety and the need for rigorous testing before medications are approved for public use, highlighting the balance between effective treatment and potential health risks.