Beasley Allen settles Vioxx suits for $4.85 billion*

In November 2007, Merck agreed to a $4.85 billion settlement to resolve more than 27,000 lawsuits- one of the largest pharmaceutical settlements in U.S history. Beasley Allen’s work helped ensure that victims received compensation for their suffering—and that Merck was held responsible for putting profits over people.

What Was Vioxx?

Vioxx was a prescription painkiller developed by Merck & Co., approved by the FDA in 1999. It was part of a class of drugs known as COX-2 inhibitors, designed to relieve pain and inflammation—especially for people with arthritis—without the stomach issues caused by traditional NSAIDs like ibuprofen.

Vioxx quickly became a blockbuster drug, used by over 20 million Americans and generating more than $2.5 billion in sales. But behind its success was a growing concern: mounting evidence that Vioxx significantly increased the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The Hidden Dangers

Early studies, including Merck’s own VIGOR trial in 2000, showed that patients taking Vioxx had a fivefold increase in heart problems compared to those taking naproxen. Merck initially claimed that naproxen was protecting the heart, not that Vioxx was causing harm.

But the truth became harder to ignore. In 2004, a long-term study called APPROVe (Adenomatous Polyp Prevention on Vioxx) was halted early when researchers found that patients who took Vioxx for 18 months or more had double the risk of serious cardiovascular events compared to those on a placebo.

Faced with overwhelming evidence, Merck voluntarily pulled Vioxx from the market in September 2004.

The Legal Battle Begins

After the recall, Merck was hit with thousands of lawsuits from patients and families who had suffered devastating health consequences. Many alleged that Merck knew about the risks but failed to warn doctors and patients.

Beasley Allen Law Firm stepped in to represent victims across the country. Their team—including attorneys Andy Birchfield, Benjamin Locklar, P. Leigh O’Dell, and W. Roger Smith III—played a leading role in holding Merck accountable.

Profit Over People

After years of legal battles, we helped negotiate a massive $4.85 billion settlement with the drug’s manufacturer, Merck & Co. This agreement provided compensation to tens of thousands of victims and their families while sending a strong message to the pharmaceutical industry: patient safety must come first. 

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a prescription drug, you are not alone—and you have the right to seek justice. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that companies are held accountable for their actions.

 
*This result was obtained in a non-Alabama case.  Beasley Allen does not represent that the same or similar result would be obtained in other cases.