Medical Expert Says Short-Term Vioxx Use Could Cause Heart Attack

By Dave Wilson

Published on September 21, 2005

The medical expert witness, Dr. Benedict Lucchesi, said that Vioxx takes at least three days to leave the bloodstream. Lucchesi, a University of Michigan professor, alleged that taking the painkilling drug could lead to an adverse event, regardless of how many doses were taken.

The professor was called to testify in court on behalf of Frederick "Mike" Humeston, a Vietnam War veteran who suffered a heart attack in 2001. Lucchesi's testimony could be critical, as Humeston admits that he had only been taking Vioxx for two months prior to his heart attack.

Merck maintains that, according to research studies conducted, Vioxx has only been shown to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients who used the drug for 18 or more consecutive months. Furthermore, Merck contends that Humeston's physical condition and sedentary lifestyle were the main factors that contributed to his heart attack, not Vioxx.

The outcome of this trial may portend the prospects for success in future Vioxx litigation. Merck has said the company may settle a minority of lawsuits that fit specific criteria. If the pharmaceutical company loses what is perceived as a relatively weak case, it could encourage further litigation and force Merck to consider settling more cases.

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