A class action lawsuit has been filed in New York against drug manufacturers Merck & Co., Inc. and Schering-Plough Corporation over their cholesterol-reducing drug Vytorin.

The suit alleges that the companies withheld significant findings from patients and doctors about the medications effectiveness in reducing the fatty plaques that can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Among other things, the suit seeks the return of money to consumers who purchased Vytorin.

A study released in January 2008 questioned the efficacy of Vytorin (combination of Zetia and Zocor), as it showed no significant benefit in slowing atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) when compared to using Zocor alone. Both doctors and some members of the U.S. Congress have complained questioning the negative results of the Enhance study that has been delayed, with some congressional leaders calling for an investigation.

• Myalgia
• Rhabdomyolysis
• Hepatitis
• Pancreatitis
• Thrombocytopenia
• Liver injury & liver damage
• Death