Merck corrects statistics for Vioxx study

Merck has announced it has had to correct the statistical methods used in the Vioxx APPROVe study, although the company does not believe that its alteration has affected the outcome of the research.

The corrections focus on a statistical and graphical method to determine whether the risks of Vioxx, the controversial drug issued for osteoarthritis and acute pain, were constant over time, or if they fluctuated over the study’s time frame.

The company said that the outcome of the research was not affected because these particular calculations only dealt with risks in terms of time and they did not provide or interpret any data regarding the severity or magnitude of the risks, which were described correctly.

A statement from Merck read: “Merck believes that today’s correction does not change the results of the APPROVe study.”

“Nonetheless, Merck intends to retain an independent statistical expert to review data and analyses from the APPROVe study. The study’s authors advised Merck that they intend to submit a correction to the New England Journal of Medicine,” it added.

In April, Merck paid $32 million (18 million pounds) in damages after Vioxx was found to be a factor in causing a fatal heart attack, according to the BBC. In the US, the company faces over 11,000 lawsuits over the possibly fatal side-effects of the drug. At one point, 500,000 Britons were prescribed Vioxx.

Scientists suggested that some types of drugs like aspirin could reduce the risks of using aspirin if used together, the BBC reported.

© Adfero Ltd