This document summarizes the Vioxx controversy involving pharmaceutical company Merck. It describes Merck's development and marketing of the pain medication Vioxx, which was later pulled from the market after studies showed it increased risks of heart attacks and strokes. The summary discusses Merck's aggressive promotion of Vioxx, rejection of proposed safety studies, and eventual $4.85 billion legal settlement after Vioxx was found to have dangerous side effects.