Fosamax

The Nature of the Drug: Fosamax (alendronate) was developed by Merck & Company to strengthen bones, particularly in older adults experiencing osteoporosis or other age-related bone loss. The drug is sometimes prescribed for Paget’s disease, a condition in which new bone tissue stops replacing old bone tissue.

Doctors may prescribe a biophosphonate drug like Fosamax to combat age-related loss bone-density loss or osteoporosis. Biophosphonates are prescribed to menopausal woman experiencing age-related bone-density loss; and they are sometimes prescribed to cancer patients whose cancer has spread to their bones. The drugs usually succeed; but recent research has found a reverse effect in some patients that can cause bone fracture.

The Hazards of Fosamax: The drug is supposed to increase bone density and prevent bone loss, but some users experience thigh fracture and other bone problems. Women taking Fosamax over extended periods are 125 times more likely to suffer a femur fracture than women not taking the drug. Such fractures are often spontaneous.

A few Fosamax users have experienced osteonecrosis of the jaw or jaw death, a condition in which jawbone tissue breaks down exposing underlying bone. Infections, gum lesions, and loosened teeth can result. Dental surgery seems to provoke jaw osteonecrosis in Fosamax users.
Fosamax has also produced the side effects joint and muscle pain, atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), and esophageal inflammation or ulcers.

Because of bone fracture and other side effects, many Fosamax users have filed lawsuits.

To Obtain Legal Relief: People using Fosamax who have experienced bone fracture, jaw death, atrial fibrillation, or esophageal inflammation or ulcers may have valuable legal rights. Attorney Stephen A. Katz is available at (800) 251-3529 for a free consultation, or for legal representation.