There are major technical and legal issues that remain unresolved with respect to Vioxx and other similar medicines. However the following 5 guidelines can be of universal benefit:
1. Be circumspect about reporting pain to a doctor. Grin and bear it if you can and know that no treatment is entirely free of risk!
2. Follow prescriptions precisely. Do not attempt a repeat purchase against an old prescription or administer your medicine to someone else.
3. Read the information leaflet that comes with your medication and clear doubts with your doctor beforehand.
4. Never take medication without your doctor’s prior information.
5. Never hide symptoms and medical history from your doctor.