Canada Panel Backs Vioxx Return

A panel of medical advisers to Canada's health department on Thursday recommended that the Merck(MRK Quote) arthritis drug Vioxx be returned to the market.

Merck withdrew Vioxx from all markets Sept. 30 after noting that clinical tests showed that patients taking the drug for more than 18 months had an increased risk of cardiovascular problems.

The panel's recommendation by a vote of 12-1 will be reviewed by the health department, Health Canada. If Merck wants to sell Vioxx again in Canada, it must submit a new application, Health Canada said Thursday. ...