If Fosamax® caused your jaw decay or if you were adversely affected by another bisphosphonate or drug for bone pain, contact the pharmaceutical attorneys at Phillips and Associates for a free case evaluation.
Answers to Your Bisphosphonates, Fosamax®, and Jaw Problem Questions
Perhaps you have heard differing information regarding bisphosphonates, especially Fosamax®, and jaw decay. The studies and news stories regarding these drugs for bone pain can seem overwhelming and confusing. Phillips and Associates, an Arizona pharmaceutical litigation firm, wants you to have the facts you need regarding Fosamax® and other bisphosphonates.
- Do I have a viable Fosamax® lawsuit?
- How can I find a qualified Fosamax® attorney to help me?
- What is Fosamax®?
- What are bisphosphonates used for?
- What are other common drugs for bone pain?
- Does Fosamax® have any side effects?
- What is osteonecrosis of the jaw?
- What are the symptoms of ONJ?
- Are there alternative treatments for osteoporosis?
- If I stop taking Fosamax®, will I still be at risk for jaw decay?
- How can I prevent ONJ?
- How is ONJ treated?
- Has there been a recall of Fosamax®?
- What are my legal rights?
Do I have a viable Fosamax® lawsuit?
If the use of Fosamax® has caused a jaw disorder or another serious side effect for you or a loved one, you may have a case. Each situation is different and must be reviewed for its own merits. Contact the pharmaceutical law specialists at Phillips and Associates for a free case evaluation.
How can I find a qualified Fosamax® attorney?
You want to find an attorney with pharmaceutical litigation experience. Phoenix's Phillips and Associates has lawyers who specialize in this field. Although our firm practices predominantly in Arizona and California, our staff has helped clients from throughout the United States with prescription drug cases. Contact Phillips and Associates for a free case evaluation from one of our attorneys.
What is Fosamax®?
Fosamax® is the brand name of the drug alendronate, which is marketed by Merck and Company (Merck) primarily for the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Fosamax® is also prescribed to treat osteoporosis in men and Paget's disease. It is an oral form of the drugs categorized as bisphosphonates.
What are bisphosphonates used for?
Bisphosphonates , sometimes referred to as drugs for bone pain, are used for the treatment of cancers that have spread to the bones, osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and other diseases with an occurrence of increased bone frailty.
What are other common drugs for bone pain?
Depending on the level of your discomfort, various pain medications ranging from morphine and methadone to over the counter drugs like ibuprofen may be used to relieve bone pain.
Bisphosphonates have become alternative drugs for bone pain. Instead of treating the symptom (the pain) the bisphosphonates attempt to treat the pain's source. For example, the drugs can work to prevent or delay the bone's destruction from cancer, thus delaying bone pain. Common brands of bisphosphonates include Aredia®, Zometa®, Actonel®, Bondronat®, and Fosamax®.
Does Fosamax® have any side effects?
Studies have linked Fosamax® with jaw disorders, specifically osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Current research shows a low occurrence of this side effect in Fosamax® patients, but an increase in jaw decay cases shows that the true extent of correlation between the drug and the disorder has yet to be discovered. More information regarding the drug's risks can be found on the Fosamax® side effects page.
What is osteonecrosis of the jaw?
Osteonecrosis of the jaw, or ONJ, is sometimes referred to as "dead jaw" and "phossy jaw." It is a disorder that causes an inability for bone tissue in the jaw to properly heal, leading to the decay and possible death of the jawbone. According to some physicians, there are several unknowns regarding ONJ and there is not even a uniform definition of osteonecrosis of the jaw.
What are the symptoms of ONJ?
Symptoms of ONJ may include poor gum healing after minor oral surgery, facial discomfort, gum and facial swelling, drainage, numbness of the jaw, and tooth loss. Victims of ONJ may suffer from severe infections and pain.
Are there alternative treatments for osteoporosis?
At the initial diagnosis of osteoporosis, your doctor will most likely recommend diet and lifestyle changes so you can get the proper nutrients and exercise to combat the advancement of osteoporosis. Additionally, estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are used as treatments for osteoporosis. Since there is some level of risk with various treatments, you should discuss your alternatives with your health care provider.
If I stop taking Fosamax®, will I still be at risk for jaw decay?
Bisphosphonates, like Fosamax®, are not metabolized in the body. Because of this, the drugs for bone pain may remain in your body even after you stop taking the drug. Research results vary in determining the actual length of time bisphosphonates remain, ranging from several months to several years. Since the drug and its effects linger in your body, even after you stop taking Fosamax® you may be at risk for jaw decay.
How can I prevent ONJ?
Although research is still being accrued on ONJ, as a Fosamax® user you can reduce jaw decay risk by carefully tending to your dental health. See your dentist regularly and inform him or her that you are taking a bisphosphonate. Also, if you need dental work, ask if non-surgical alternatives are available.
How is ONJ treated?
Treatments for osteonecrosis of the jaw have begun to change. Originally, surgeries were being performed to remove the dead pieces of the jaw, but these procedures seem to worsen the condition. Although some minor surgical procedures may be needed to smooth jagged edges of jawbone or to remove damaged tissue, the more invasive surgeries are performed less often. Treatments now tend to consist of oral rinses, extended antibiotic use, and removable oral appliances.
Has there been a recall of Fosamax®?
Although some consumers are calling for one, there has not yet been a Fosamax® recall. There has been FDA involvement in issuing Fosamax® warnings, but the government agency does not show any signs of issuing a recall at this time.
What are my legal rights?
If you or a loved one has suffered pain or disfigurement from Fosamax®-induced jaw decay, you have the right to file a Fosamax® lawsuit to obtain compensation for compensatory or punitive damages. Contact the pharmaceutical litigation firm of Phillips and Associates to discuss building a bisphosphonates case.