Tie-Breaking Merck Case Ends In Mistrial

After winning and losing one, reaching a mistrial seemed a natural for beleagured drug maker Merck in its battle to protect itself from what are reportedly thousands of pending lawuits and claims regarding the company's Vioxx product.

Consumers claim using the drug could cause coronary problems, and the first jury, based in Texas, agreed. That jury award more than $250 million. Unfazed, Merck announced it would individually fight each lawsuit.

U.S. District Judge Eldon Fallon in Louisana's Eastern District sent the jury home after they reported that they were hopelessly deadlocked. Pundits on both sides claim victory although Wall Street sent the stock down nearly 3% after the mistrial was announced.

Consumer Help Web has published a checklist for former Vioxx users seeking legal representation. When the advocacy organization published the list this fall, Consumer Help Web President Joan Bounacos said, "Merck may be vigorously defending itself, but the blood is in the water. It is critical that consumers pick the right attorney if they intend to participate in legal proceedings." Bounacos added today that simply using a search engine with the phrase "Vioxx attorney" yields tens of thousands of listings.

posted by Consumer Help Web Editorial Team at 9:16 PM |