Osteoporosis effects about 10 million Americans. Fosamax, a popular drug used to treat osteoporosis has been linked to serious health problems.
There are two types of osteoporosis. The first type, Primary, occurs spontaneously and contains three subtypes. The other type is Secondary osteoporosis, which is caused by a disease or medication.
Primary Osteoporosis
Primary osteoporosis occurs spontaneously. There are three types of primary osteoporosis:
1) Postmenopausal Osteoporosis (Type I Osteoporosis)
Postmenopausal osteoporosis normally occurs in individuals between the ages of 50 and 75. It is caused by a lack of estrogen. Although it is more likely to occur in women, postmenopausal osteoporosis also occurs in men with low levels of testosterone.
Increased risk factors for postmenopausal osteoporosis include:
- low body weight, which is usually associated with smaller bones and lower estrogen levels
- advanced age
- women where menopause occurred early in life
- anorexia
Fosamax is a popular medication which is often prescribed for postmenopausal osteoporosis. However, studies have shown that Fosamax can lead to a very serious and painful jawbone side effect, resulting in osteonecrosis of the jaw. New studies point to Fosamax also causing osteonecrosis of the hip, knee and shoulder. Fosamax lawsuit claims are currently being investigating against the manufacturer for failing to warn patients and dentists of the known risks associated with these medications.
2) Involuntional or Senile Osteoporosis (Type II Osteoporosis)
Type 2 Osteoporosis typically occurs in patients over the age of 60 and is associated with the normal process of aging. As individuals age, it is common to lose bone density. Involuntional osteoporosis often results in fractures of the neck, vertebrae, humerous, tibia and pelvis.
3) Idiopathic Osteoporosis
This type of osteoporosis is uncommon. It is associated with occurrence in children and young adults.
Secondary Osteoporosis
Secondary osteoporosis only accounts for approximately 5% of all people with osteoporosis. It is caused or brought about by a disease or medication.
Some diseases which may cause secondary osteoporosis include:
- kidney failure
- Cushing’s disease
- hyperparathyroidism
- hyperthyroidism
- hypogonadism
- diabetes mellitus
- hormonal disorders
Some medication or drugs which may cause secondary osteoporosis include:
- corticosteroids
- barbiturates
- anticonvulsants
- excessive alcohol consumption
- cigarette smoking
