Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Osteoporosis Medications

Osteoporosis drugs are intended to treat and prevent osteoporosis in patients by increasing the bone density and keeping the bones from breaking down, thus making a fracture less likely. These types of drugs usually belong to the Bisphosphonate category. Osteoporosis makes the bones more likely to fracture because the bones become brittle, often occurring in the elderly, making a fracture potentially life-threatening.

One of the most common Bisphosphonate drugs is called Alendronate, sold as Fosamax or a generic form. While many people who take Fosamax suffer only minor side effects, if any at all, others may have more severe problems. With all drugs, the benefits of taking Fosamax must be weighed against the potential harm that it could do. Patients need to assess and closely monitor their body for any reactions. Patients should also keep in mind that some side effects may occur suddenly and without warning.

If you are taking Fosamax you may experience a number of side effects. Minor side effects include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, headaches, rashes and heartburn. Unfortunately, patients should also be on the lookout for some of the more severe side effects, such as throat pain, chest pain or difficulty swallowing. Some patients have experienced problems with the esophagus, some ultimately being diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Fosamax has also been linked to spontaneous femur, hip and thigh fractures. The Journal of American Medicine said that prolonged treatment, generally five years or more, with Fosamax is linked to an “increased risk of subtrochanteric or femoral shaft fractures.” These extremely painful and debilitating injuries are associated with long recovery times and altered lifestyles, often making daily activities difficult or impossible. These fractures may occur after low-impact falls or in situations where normally the bone would not be affected. There is often no indication that this is coming, although Fosamax is associated with severe bone, muscle or joint pain.

Another potentially severe side effect of alendronates or Fosamax is “dead jaw syndrome” or osteonecrosis of the jaw. This condition causes the jaw bone to deteriorate and die from lack of adequate blood flow. While there are different levels of osteonecrosis of the jaw, in many cases the jaw bone must ultimately be removed.

Recently, lawsuits have been filed concerning some of the side effects of Fosamax. Patients who have been on Fosamax and experienced a fracture femur ,thigh or hip, or have dead jaw syndrome (osteonecrosis of the jaw) may be entitled to file a suit for their injuries, pain and suffering.

With over three decades of experience the Law Firm of Rudolph F.X. Migliore, P.C. has been helping those suffering as a result of Fosamax. The firm is also accepting new cases and is working with nationally recognized co-council to reach major verdicts. For a free consultation, contact the firm at 631-543-3663, or please visit migliorelaw.com for more information.