Protonix® Wrist Fractures
In May of 2010, the FDA required that all proton pump inhibitors have upgraded warning information printed on their labels to reflect the results of several observational studies in relation to bone fracture. These proton pump inhibitors (PPIs for short) include drugs like Prilosec®, Prevacid® and Protonix®.
Protonix® is a prescription-only PPI that contains the active drug pantoprazole. Generally the drug is prescribed in 20 or 40 mg delayed release tablets (though a 40 mg orally ingestible solution is available) and designed to be taken once per day.
The recommended course of treatment for Protonix® is only 8 weeks unless the drug is prescribed for a chronic condition such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Protonix® Wrist Fractures
In six of the seven studies mentioned above, patients who had taken a PPI like Protonix® for extended periods of time were found to have also suffered a greater amount of bone fractures than those who had not taken the drugs. These fractures commonly occurred in the wrist, and hip, but spinal fractures were noticed as well.
One theory behind the increased amount of breakage is that PPIs decrease the level of stomach acid too much and bodies are not able to digest critical bone-building substances such as calcium. Scientists arrived at the theory because these fractures look, for all intents and purposes, just like those seen in osteoporosis patients.
There are studies currently in the works to find out exactly how many of these fractures can be directly related to PPI use.
Symptoms and Treatment of Wrist Fracture
The symptoms of PPI related wrist fracture may not be the typical symptoms you would expect with the breakage of a bone. While there may be severe pain, extreme or at least noticeable loss of mobility, and excessive swelling, because of the nature of these fractures, the symptoms may also take other forms. These include:
- Mild to moderate pain (either throbbing or constant ache)
- Mild swelling
- Stiffness
- "Weakness" of the joint
- Difficulty grasping or handling objects
Wrist fracture is most commonly treated by immobilizing the wrist with a cast. The healing process can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on the severity of the break and the patient's own body's ability to repair the breakage.
In addition, if the bone breaks badly, surgeons may have to remove pieces, reconstruct the bone, or even hold the pieces in place with pins, plates, or screws. If the wrist is immobile for an extended period of time, therapy may be required to return the joint to full mobility.
Contact a Protonix® Lawyer Today
If you've taken Protonix® (pantoprazole) and have suffered any side effects including fracture of the wrist, hip, or spine, you may be able to collect damages from the manufacturer of the drug. Our Protonix® lawyers will work with you to get the maximum compensation allowable.
Contact us today to schedule an evaluation of your case.
