Fosamax
A recent study says that people taking the prescription drug Fosamax may be at risk of developing a rare disorder called osteonecrosis. The disease is a condition marked by pain, swelling, and infection in the jaw, and is more commonly known as Dead Jaw.
Fosamax is designed to fight bone loss and is used to prevent osteoporosis, a disease that increases the risk of serious and debilitating fractures. The drug is also used to prevent Paget's disease and is prescribed to an estimated 10 million Americans with sales topping $3 billion annually.
According to the study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, Fosamax is linked to jaw and throat cancer that could lead to sections of the jawbone needing to be surgically removed. The bone-thinning disease, osteonecrosis, is known for its habit of stealing bone mass and depleting bone strength while showing no signs of symptoms until a bone fracture occurs.
Fosamax has also been linked to significantly increased odds of developing an irregular heartbeat in elderly women. The condition, known as atrial fibrillation, can result in a rapid and irregular heartbeat and lead to fatigue or possibly strokes. Fosamax has also been linked to 23 cases of esophageal cancer since being approved by the FDA.
The National Institutes of Health reports that osteoporosis currently affects nearly 10 million Americans, with an estimated 34 million more who may be at risk for developing the disease. This has led physicians to weigh the drug's risks and argue that elderly women benefit from using the drug after they've suffered a fracture.
If you are currently taking the prescription drug Fosamax, consult with your doctor to learn about all of the possible causes, concerns, and effects associated with the drug. Any decision to discontinue the use of Fosamax should be made in consultation with your physician.
And if you or a loved one has suffered any of the signs associated with osteonecrosis or Dead Jaw, call the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein today for a free and confidential consolation. You may be entitled to compensation.
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