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Fosamax Dead Jaw

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Fosamax dead jaw, medically termed osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), is a condition in which the bone tissue of the jaw deteriorates resulting in bone collapse. Fosamax dead jaw often requires long-term drug treatment and/or surgery. If you or a loved one has developed Fosamax dead jaw, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your losses and suffering, please contact us to speak with an experienced attorney who can answer your questions and determine your legal rights and options.

What is Fosamax?

The Food and Drug Administration approved Fosamax in 1995 to prevent and treat osteoporosis and Paget's disease. Fosamax is also prescribed to patients whose cancer has metasicized to the bone. Critics contend that Fosamax's maker, Merck, aggressively marketed this drug to women by perpetuating a fear of debilitating hip fractures and the need for regular bone density tests. Fosamax belongs to a class of drugs called bisphosphonates, which have been linked to dead jaw.

Fosamax study findings

In 2004, a study conducted by the Long Island Jewish Medical Center established a clear link between Fosamax and dead jaw. After the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons published evidence about the risks of Fosamax dead jaw, the FDA urged Merck to add stronger warning to Fosamax labeling. The drug company did not follow the FDA's recommendation.

According to 2006 research, Fosamax or related bisphosphonates were linked to 2,400 cases of jaw-related bone damage.

Fosamax dead jaw symptoms

Common symptoms of Fosamax dead jaw may include:

• Pain or swelling of the gums

• Tingling, burning, or pain in the jaw
• Numbness or a heavy sensation in the jaw
• Altered or limited sensation in the jaw

It is important to contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Dead jaw risk factors

Patients taking Fosamax should speak with their doctors to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of Fosamax use. Many experts are cautioning Fosamax users to avoid oral surgery, tooth extraction, and other types of minor dental trauma because these can drastically increase the risk of Fosamax dead jaw.

Fosamax lawsuits

In April 2006, a lawsuit was filed against Merck, alleging that the company knew of the dangers of Fosamax dead jaw, but chose to conceal this serious side effect risk from the public. This lawsuit may gain class action status, allowing more than ten million Fosamax users who have suffered dead jaw disease to seek compensation for their losses and suffering. Currently, qualified attorneys are assessing individual Fosamax dead jaw cases to determine the best course of legal action.

If you or a loved one has developed dead jaw disease that you believe is linked to Fosamax, you may wish to speak with a qualified and experienced attorney who can help protect your legal rights and interests. Please contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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