Ministry wants report on Vioxx death

Merck and Co, the manufacturer of the drug, voluntarily withdrew it from the US market in September 2004 after a study found that chronic use of Vioxx has been linked to increased cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

An official of the division said there are systems in place for receiving reports from the public and investigating complaints.

He said it was the first time he has heard of a death linked to Vioxx in TT. “We would like to get a report,” he said. The doctor who treated the patient can submit a report on the case.

The official said when concerns were raised about Vioxx, the manufacturer Merck and Co, removed the drug from the US market and supplies to TT stopped. He said the ministry also looked at generic products.

He said investigations by the division can be initiated without waiting on the medical report. The batch number can be traced and testing done at the laboratory.

He said epidemiologists work with the division and can access patients’ hospital and doctors’ records.

The official said forms have been sent to institutions and the Medical Board has been advised to report any “adverse reactions” with medications.

He said a Drug Advisory Committee meets bi-monthly to discuss drug registration but can also meet in an emergency session should the need arise.

A story carried in Sunday Newsday reported that 76-year-old Skinner-Thomas died in February last year at the San Fernando General Hospital. The death certificate stated that she died of a heart attack. She had been taking Vioxx since June 2000. Prior to her death she had been experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, bleeding, heart burn and fluid retention.

Skinner-Thomas’ son Steve said from watching television he became aware of the adverse effects and about Vioxx being pulled from the market. He contacted an attorney and has initiated legal action against Merck and Co, the manufacturer of Vioxx.

No comment was available from Oscar Francois Ltd, the local distributor for pharmaceuticals from Merck and Co.