HUChronicle_Twitter_Logo.jpg

Hi.

Welcome to the official, independent student-run newspaper of Hofstra University!

Athletes Question Vioxx

By Amy Krysiewski

Weeks after the recall on Vioxx, a prescription anti-inflammatory, University athletes, coaches and trainers question the motives of pharmaceutical companies.

"We put blind faith into these companies," said John Danowski, men's head lacrosse coach, said. "Our young athletes do not ask enough questions as to what enters their bodies."

Vioxx, manufactured by pharmaceutical giant Merck & Co., was a Cox-2 inhibitor. Therefore, it offered all benefits of an anti-inflammatory without gastrointestinal side-effects. Results of a recent study confirmed that Vioxx can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, like heart attack and stroke. These conclusions led to the withdrawal of the drug.

According to the University's head athletic trainer, Evan Malings, Vioxx was often prescribed to athletes to relieve pain following an injury or surgery. Inflammation causes pressure and subsequently brings about discomfort in the injured area.

More often than not, Vioxx proved beneficial; as it minimized athletes' pain. However, the recall generated an unfavorable attitude.

"My back felt a lot better when I was on Vioxx, but the revelation that I put such a harmful drug into my body had me in shock and I regret taking it," Eric Balson, a junior baseball player said.

Concerns about other drugs have been posed upon the Vioxx recall.

"I am definitely more apprehensive when prescribed something," Balson continued, "In the future, I will research medication before I take it."

"Drug manufacturers want to put out money-making medications and this pulls them away from the personal aspect of health," Barbara Stanley, professor of consumer health said. "Our athletes have the right to be informed and should take charge of their health by questioning doctors. This would prevent [our athletes] from putting themselves at risk."

Because the patient group studied were older than 30, the recall did not create an immediate threat to University athletes.

"Athletes are in great cardiovascular shape," Matt Reedy, a pharmaceutical representative, said. "This group is the least vulnerable and should not be bothered by the hazards of Vioxx or any other anti-inflammatory."

Art Exhibit Displays Images of WTC

Men's Soccer Wins in First Round of NCAAs