Vioxx was one of several nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories used for arthritis and other chronic, painful conditions. It was a very popular COX-2 inhibitor. Patients were less likely to get stomach ulcers on these drugs.

It was recalled (along with Celebrex) by the manufacturer because of some safety concerns. There were reports of increased heart attacks. Bextra, a drug in the same class, was removed from the market by the FDA because of heart risks and rare but serious skin reactions.

There's some talk that Vioxx will quietly return to the market some time in the future. There will be warnings given about its proper use for people at low risk for heart problems. Doctors will be advised about restricting the dosage.

In the meantime, researchers at drug companies are working on newer COX-2 drugs without all the problems.