Osteonecrosis Of The Jaw. Zometa,aredia,fosamax Linked To Jaw Bone Loss
Zometa,Aredia,and Fosamax are common drugs that have been linked to the loss of jaw bone
These drugs are a type of drug known as bisphosphonates. Recently a link has been found between bisphosphonates and a serious bone disease called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). This important discovery clearly shows that Fosamax and Zometa side effects may include osteonecrosis of the jaw, also known as "Dead Jaw".
The discovery, published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, prompted both the US, Food and Drug Administration ( FDA ) and Novartis, the manufacturer of bisphosphonates used in cancer chemotherapy, to issue a warning to health care professionals on September 24, 2004.
The warning letter contained information about bisphosphonates and the risks of osteonecrosis in the jaw. Bisphosphonates are commonly used in tablet form such as Fosamax ( Alendronate Sodium ) to prevent and treat osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.
Stronger forms of bisphosphonates are commonly used in the management of advanced cancers that have metastasized to the bone, where the disease often causes bone pain and possibly even fractures. Several cancers can involve or metastasize to the bone, including lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, multiple myeloma, and others. When bisphosphonates are given in cancer chemotherapy, the drugs are given intravenously, and usually for longer periods of time.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Osteonecrosis of the jaw ( ONJ ) is a condition in which the bone tissue in the jaw fails to heal after minor trauma such as a tooth extraction, causing the bone to be exposed. The exposure can eventually lead to infection and fracture and may require long-term antibiotic therapy or surgery to remove the dying bone tissue. Experts say that prevention and early treatment of individuals using bisphosphonates such as Fosamax is extremely important in preserving the jaw bone.
Individuals using Fosomax or other bisphosphonates should attempt to avoid tooth extractions and other major dental work while on the drugs.
Although most cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw related to Fosamax side effects have occured after dental work several cases have been reported to occur without any prior dental work. Patients taking Fosamax may be at risk of developing osteonecrosis. Patients injured by Fosamax side effects may be entitled to compensation.
For more information about the legal rights of patients contact the offices of
Powell Law Firm, L.C. is the nation's leading law firm for litigation regarding Bisphosphonate Complications.
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