Fosamax Esophageal Cancer Side Effects
Last week we wrote about a study published in the current issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association which confirms the link between Fosamax and jaw necrosis. Now an FDA official from the agency’s division of drug risk assessment indicates that Fosamax side effects may possibly be linked to esophageal cancer.
>>INFORMATION: Fosamax side effects
According to the FDA’s Diane Wysowski, at least 44 users in the United States, Europe and Japan have been diagnosed with esophageal cancer after using Fosamax. Another 6 cases of esophageal tumors outside the United States were associated with other oral bisphophonates, such as Actonel, Boniva and Didronel, or a combination of the drugs.
Esophagitis, which involves inflammation of the lining of the esophageal tube that carries food and liquid between the throat and stomach, is a known side effect of Fosamax and oral bisphosphonates.
In a letter to the editor published in the current issue of the New England Journal of Medicine about the Fosamax esophageal cancer risk, Wysowski wrote:
Crystalline material similar to ground alendronate (Fosamax) tablets has been found on biopsy in patients with erosive esophagitis, and persistent mucosal abnormalities have been noted in some of these patients, suggesting a potential for carcinogenic effects. Physicians should avoid prescribing oral bisphosphonates to patients with Barrett’s esophagus. Studies should include oral bisphosphonates as possible risk factors for esophageal cancer.
FOSAMAX ESOPHAGEAL CANCER LAWSUITS
For nearly three years, the Fosamax lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. have been investigating potential lawsuits on behalf of Fosamax users who developed osteonecrosis of the jaw as a side effect of Fosamax.
>>INFORMATION: Fosamax Jaw Lawsuits
Additional research into the possible risk factors for esophageal cancer as a side effect of Fosamax and other oral bisphosphonates is necessary before it can be determined whether individuals who have been diagnosed with tumors while taking the drug may be entitled to compensation as a result of inadequate warnings.
To have a potential Fosamax lawsuit reviewed by an attorney, request a free consultation and claim evaluation.
