By AP/KWMU
Chicago, Ill. – A lawsuit was filed Monday on behalf of about 300,000 Illinoisans who haved used the arthritis drug Vioxx.
The drug company Merck took Vioxx off the shelves last week over fears that users face a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The lawsuit alleges Merck knew of the drug's dangers for years and asks for money to pay back the cost of doctor visits.
The suit also seeks reimbursement for the cost of diagnostic procedures related to Vioxx use, and seeks a refund of the money patients spent to buy the drug.
A Merck spokesman says the company will vigorously defend any personal injury lawsuits.