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Vioxx Alternative

Since Merck voluntarily recalled their product, Vioxx, from the market in September of 2003, patients who had been taking Vioxx have scrambled for a Vioxx alternative. Vioxx, once touted as a "super pain killer," was used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other severe forms of pain. Vioxx is one in a group of newer non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that is used to treat acute pain. The original NSAIDs caused significant gastrointestinal problems in their patients; therefore the Vioxx alternative was thought to be providing pain relief without the harmful side effects.

Vioxx was recalled when it was discovered that the adverse side effects associated with using Vioxx outweighed the benefits of continuing to use this pain medicine. Internally conducted clinical trials revealed that patients taking Vioxx are twice as likely as the general population to suffer from serious heart attack or stroke.

There are a number of other drugs that work just like Vioxx and may be used as a Vioxx alternative. Other pharmaceutical companies who offer similar medicines have not had sufficient cause to recall their own pain relievers. Because these Vioxx alternative medicines work in much the same way as Vioxx, you may wish to consult a medical professional before taking these medications, to be sure that they are right for you. Celebrex and Bextra (by Pfizer) are both possible Vioxx alternative medicines that have not been shown to cause an elevated risk of heart attack and stroke.

Another type of Vioxx alternative includes taking one of the original prescription or non-prescription NSAIDs. Aspirin and ibuprofen can prove effective as a non-prescription Vioxx alternative. If you do not experience harmful side effects, you may be able to use an original NSAID as a Vioxx alternative. Some examples of prescription NSAID Vioxx alternative medicines include ketoprofen, naproxen, and several others. It is important to keep in mind that these medications may cause gastrointestinal problems in patients.

There are also herbal Vioxx alternative pain remedies available. Bromelain, traditionally used in Japan, Hawaii, and Taiwan, is a natural Vioxx alternative that acts as an anti-inflammatory and a digestive aid. Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM) is another natural Vioxx alternative that can relieve joint pain and strengthen joint collagen. Glucosamine is also a natural Vioxx alternative that is used to treat osteoarthritis.

The use of any Vioxx alternative should be discussed with your doctor prior to beginning new treatment. If you had been taking Vioxx for your pain there are a number of Vioxx alternative medicines that do not carry the same risks that Vioxx use does. If you have been injured through the use of Vioxx, you may wish to speak to a legal professional who can determine if you are eligible to file a case to recover your damages.

For more information on Vioxx alternatives, please contact us.

Contact a Vioxx Recall Lawyer

More Vioxx Resources

MedLine Plus Drug Information - Guide to prescription and over-the-counter medications provided by the United States Pharmacopeia.

Vioxx.com - Official Vioxx Roxecofib site from Merck.

Vioxx Drug Warnings - Vioxx side effects information including lawsuit information and vioxx warnings.