Contraindications

Vioxx is not recommended for people who:

• Have a history of ulcers or stomach bleeding

• Have had asthma, hives, or allergic-type reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs

• Have severe kidney problems

• Have severe liver problems

• Are pregnant

If Vioxx is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered.

Check with your doctor before combining Vioxx with the following:

• Aluminum and magnesium antacids such as Maalox or Mylanta

• Amitriptyline (Elavil)

• Aspirin

• Blood pressure medications known as ACE-inhibitors, including Capoten, Lotensin and Vasotec

• Calcium carbonate antacids such as Alka-Mints and Tums

• Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)

• Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)

• Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)

• Tacrine (Cognex)

• Theophylline (Theo-Dur)

• Warfarin (Coumadin)

• Water pills (diuretics) such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL

• Zileuton (Zyflo)

If you’re taking Vioxx, please be aware of the following warnings:

• Vioxx is more likely to cause serious gastrointestinal side effects if you've had a problem with ulcers or stomach bleeding in the past.

• Older adults and those in poor health are also more at risk for serious side effects

• People taking steroids such as prednisone and blood thinners such as aspirin and warfarin are also at higher risk for serious side effects

• Other factors that increase your risk include smoking, alcoholism, and long-term use of NSAIDs.

• Caution is also warranted if you have asthma. Vioxx could trigger an attack, especially if you are also sensitive to aspirin. You should also use Vioxx cautiously when suffering from dehydration.

• Vioxx sometimes causes water retention, which can aggravate swelling, high blood pressure, and heart failure. Use this drug with caution if you have any of these conditions. Report any unexplained swelling or weight gain to your doctor immediately.

• Vioxx may also cause a slight increase in the risk of dangerous blood clots, and should be used with caution if you have a history of clogged arteries, angina, or heart attack. Alert your doctor without delay if you develop chest pain.

• If you've been taking a steroid medication for arthritis, do not discontinue it abruptly when you begin therapy with Vioxx. Vioxx is not a substitute for such drugs.

• Because Vioxx relieves inflammation, fever, and pain, it may hide signs of an infection.

• The safety and effectiveness of Vioxx in children below the age of 18 have not been evaluated.

If you or someone you know suffered side effects after taking Vioxx, call or e-mail our experienced Texas Vioxx attorneys at 1-800-683-8383 and find out your legal rights.