Merck sales and marketing update

MRK will withdraw its Vioxx rofecoxib COX-2 inhibitor from markets worldwide. The decision relates to data showing that Vioxx increased the risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke in APPROVe, a 2,600-patient trial of Vioxx to prevent the recurrence of colorectal polyps.

MRK's other COX-2 inhibitor, Arcoxia, is approved in 47 countries outside the U.S. The company said it will work with regulatory authorities to determine whether to change the drug's label and plans to seek approval in the U.S. and elsewhere. ...