Merck Scientists Defend Vioxx

Christina Cole

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Merck & Co., accused of pointedly selling Vioxx while aware of the health risk and potential to cause heart attacks, started its defense Thursday by calling their top research scientist to testify and explain the vast research the company does.

Merck's director of clinical research and vice president of early research both said the company had preformed dozens of tests on the arthritis dug to discover any potential side effects along with interactions when taking other drugs such as aspirin.

Both scientists testified as the defense in a lawsuit before the Madison County Circuit Court. Frank Schwaller claims the drug caused the heart attack that claimed his wife's life on August 8, 2003. The company is attempting to put into context the studies that the plaintiffs have highlighted in their claims.

A top cardiologist is expected to testify Monday on the effects the arthritis drug may have had on Schwaller, 52, of Granite City, in light of the fact that she had several other risk factors, such as diabetes and being overweight.

Both sides expect the Schwaller case to be closely watched to see for the first time how the legal wrangling over Vioxx plays out in the Midwest.

Merck withdrew Vioxx from the market in 2004 when a study showed it likely raised the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Merck faces 27,000 lawsuits nationwide and has said it plans to fight every one of them in court.