Jury selection over in New Jersey Vioxx trial

An important milestone has been achieved in the Humeston vs. Merck trial going on in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The lawyers on both sides have agreed to pick a ten-member jury consisting of seven women and three men.

The plaintiff, Frederick "Mike" Humeston, a Vietnam veteran is accusing Merck that Vioxx caused his heart attack. The company is, however, steadfastly denying that there was any link between his attack and Vioxx, even though the company recalled Vioxx because of higher incidence of heart attacks. Merck is arguing that people at his age, particularly if they also happen to be obese, often have heart problems.