Abstract

The case gives an overview on the controversy involving Vioxx, a drug produced by the US based Merck, a global pharma major. Vioxx was used for the treatment of arthritis and acute pain. The product was promoted aggressively by Merck and had emerged as one of the best selling drugs for Merck within a year of its launch. However, medical experts raised doubts about the cardiovascular risks associated with Vioxx’s long-term usage. In the initial years, Merck disagreed with the various medical studies that indicated cardiovascular risks until its own internal study indicated the risk. Finally, in September 2004, Vioxx was recalled from the market. The case highlights the ethical issues involved in Vioxx’s controversy and examines the way Merck handled the entire issue.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Ethical issues involved in the controversy associated with Vioxx.: Analyze the way Merck responded on the Vioxx issue.

Keywords

Case, Vioxx, Merck & Company, Product Recall, Corporate Communication, Patient Safety, Crisis Management, Public Relations, Business Ethics and Food and Drug Administration