Fosamax effects continue even after drug is stopped

Austin Kirk

By Austin Kirk
Posted January 9, 2007

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As a result of the long-term effects of Fosamax, women with osteoporosis may not need to continue taking the drug to avoid the risk of fractures.  A recent study indicates that after taking Fosamax for five years, the risk of most fractures is no greater if the medication is stopped.  This new research raises questions about Fosamax jaw side effects, and whether thousands of users diagnosed with serious jaw problems could have avoided their permanent disability by stopping the drug after five years.

>>INFORMATION:  Fosamax jaw side effects

Fosamax lawsuits have been filed nationwide on behalf of individuals diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the jaw, a painful and potentially disfiguring condition which causes the jawbone to decay.  Fosamax side effects increase the risk of this rare condition, which often leads to jaw infection and exposed bone inside of the mouth. 

>>INFORMATION: Symptoms of Fosamax Jaw Problems

Merck’s marketing materials indicate that the benefits of Fosamax “will continue as long as you continue treatment”.  In an effort to increase sales, they have promoted ‘Fosamax for life’.  However, this study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that women with osteoporosis who stopped taking Fosamax after 5 years did not experience any greater occurrence of most fractures than women who continued taking the drug for 10 years. 

Researchers indicate that as many as 50% to 70% of Fosamax users may be able to safely stop the medication without increasing their risk of fractures.  Fosamax has a long half-life, which means that it remains in the system for years.  While there is no evidence that stopping the medication reverses any Fosamax jaw problems which may have been caused, it has been established that the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw increases the longer the drug is taken. 

FOSAMAX JAW PROBLEM LAWSUITS

The Fosamax lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk are representing individuals across the country who have been diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the jaw.  If you, a friend or family member have taken Fosamax and suffered jaw problems, find out if you may qualify for a claim by requesting a free consultation.

2 Comments • Add Your Comments

  • Christine Goduto says:

    I’ve been taking Fosamax since the fall of 1999. I started having lower left side jaw pain. Doctor ordered X-ray of jaw and it did show that something was wrong under a certain tooth that had been root canelled. Dentist stated it was abcess, and that I had bone loss. The dentist recommended pulling the tooth and did so within 48 hrs. I was put on antibiotics for 2 days. No need for antibiotic after the tooth was pulled. Still having jaw pain even worst than it was before the extraction. ALso, after taking additional X-rays he found the back molar upper rt side also with bone loss and decay under a crown.

    He would not commit himself by saying it was due from Fosamax.

    Posted on February 4, 2007 at 8:21 pm

  • Austin Kirk says:

    Christine,

    The symptoms you have described sound very similar to what we have seen in Fosamax users diagnosed with Osteonecrosis of the Jaw. The jaw decay caused by Fosamax can be aggravated by traumas, such as tooth extraction, which cause the condition to worsen. Even if you have not been diagnosed with Osteonecrosis of the Jaw, our Fosamax lawyers can review the circumstances surrounding your symptoms and the treatment records to determine if the jaw problems you are experiencing may be a side effect of Fosamax.

    If you wish to review this matter further, call our office toll free at (800) 522-0102 or request a claim evaluation.

    Posted on February 5, 2007 at 11:03 pm

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