Fosamax

Fosamax® belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates, which are commonly prescribed for the treatment of osteoporosis or for the management of advanced cancers. Unfortunately, this popular drug has been linked to the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw, or ONJ, a rare and serious condition that causes breakdown and death of the jaw bone.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw may occur after minor dental work, and because Fosamax® remains in the body for many months or years after treatment, even patients who are no longer using Fosamax® are at an increased risk for ONJ. Symptoms include severe infections with facial discomfort or numbness, gum swelling, drainage, and poor gum healing. Additionally, victims of ONJ may experience tooth loss and other disfiguring side effects. Treatment of osteonecrosis of the jaw may include long-term antibiotic use, surgical reduction of damaged bone, or similar alternatives. Extreme care must be taken by ONJ victims as the condition is extremely resistant to most treatments and surgical procedures have been shown to worsen the condition.

In a study conducted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Fosamax®, users were shown to have a higher incidence of ONJ than users of other bisphosphonates. Additionally, evidence suggests that Merck failed to update the Fosamax® label to reflect the dangers in a timely manner, invariably exposing countless users to serious, potential injuries.

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