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Merck Recalls Arthritis Drug Vioxx
Merck & Co., the pharmaceutical company that developed Vioxx, recently announced that it is pulling the drug from the marketplace. Vioxx is a popular drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat arthritis. Merck had recently completed a three-year clinical study exploring the effectiveness of Vioxx in preventing the recurrence of polyps in the colon and rectum as well. Data from this clinical trial indicated an increased risk of heart attack and stroke in patients taking Vioxx versus patients taking dummy pills.
Given the widespread use of Vioxx, it is likely that some of your employees are affected by this recall. We suggest that these individuals contact their physicians to discuss alternative medications. If a physician prescribes a new medication, it is possible that a different copay could apply (if you have a three-tier formulary drug plan) or that prior authorization must be obtained from the insurance company. Information regarding the prescription drug formularies and prior authorization requirements can usually be found on the insurance company websites.
In response to the recall, we expect to receive information from the insurance companies regarding any changes in policy or procedure. The insurance companies also may notify your employees and the physicians if there are any changes in how alternatives to Vioxx will be handled. We will be sure to share with you any information we receive about how your particular plan is handling the Vioxx recall. In the meantime, please reach out to your Benefit Service Specialist at RSI Gallagher if you have any questions. |
