Fosamax Health Warning

There is a potentially very dangerous side effect from taking a drug that supposedly strengthens bones. This drug is frequently taken by older women who suffer from osteoporosis.

Fosamax® (generic name - Alendronate) is a type of drug known as bisphosphonates. Recently a link has been found between bisphosphonates and a serious bone disease called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ, or "Dead Jaw"). This important discovery clearly shows that Fosamax side effects may include "dead jaw."

A report published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons prompted the United States Food and Drug Administration and Novartis, the manufacturer of bisphosphonates used in cancer chemotherapy, to issue a warning to health care professionals. The warning letter contained information about bisphosphonates and the risks of osteonecrosis in the jaw.

Bisphosphonates such as Fosamax (Alendronate Sodium), Zometa (Zoledronate), Didronel (Etidronate), Aredia (Pamidronate), Actonel (Risedronate), and Boniva (Ibandronate) are commonly used to treat, prevent, and even to reverse bone loss associated with osteoporosis, chemotherapy, and other bone loss disorders. The strongest forms of bisphosphonates are commonly used in the management of advanced cancers that have metastasized to the bone -- where the disease often causes bone pain and possibly even causes fractures. Several cancers can involve or metastasize to the bone, including lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, multiple myeloma, and others. When bisphosphonates are given in cancer chemotherapy, the drugs are given intravenously, and usually for longer periods of time.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a condition in which the bone tissue in the jaw fails to heal after minor trauma such as a tooth extraction, causing the bone to be exposed. The exposure can eventually lead to infection and fracture, and may require long-term antibiotic therapy or surgery to remove the dying bone tissue. Experts say that prevention and early treatment of individuals using bisphosphonates such as Fosamax is extremely important in preserving the jaw bone. Individuals using Fosamax or other bisphosphonates should attempt to avoid tooth extractions and other major dental work while on the drugs.

Although most cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw related to Fosamax side effects have occurred after dental work, several cases have been reported without any prior dental work. If you are currently taking Fosamax you may be at risk of developing osteonecrosis. If you have been injured by Fosamax side effects you may be entitled to compensation.

The symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw include:

• Severe infections
• Loosening of teeth
• Swelling around the jaw

If you or a loved one have taken Fosamax and have been injured as a result of Fosamax side effects such as osteonecrosis of the jaw, please contact our law firm immediately. You should never discontinue the use of any prescription drug without discussing your concerns with your doctor.