Will Vioxx be coming back on the market?

Despite a barrage of negative press and criticism, Merck is considering returning Vioxx to the market but has reached no decision, Erb said. The company has asked the FDA to spell out what additional information would be needed to bring Vioxx back. An important hearing on Vioxx held in May of 2005 by the Senate Finance Committee may prove to be a milestone in congressional efforts to strengthen the FDA's drug safety program. Until now, some members of the Senate have focused on the subject, but the House has remained on the sidelines. After the hearing, panel Chairman Thomas M. Davis (R-Va.) said that legislation might be needed.