Fosamax Side Effects
Fosamax is a type of drug that is commonly used to treat a number of bone diseases like osteoporosis and osteitis deformans (Paget's disease). Such bone diseases have a propensity towards causing a loss in bone mass. Fosamax treatments help in maintaining / increasing the bone density levels of people suffering from certain bone diseases.
Use of Merck & Co.'s bisphosphonate drug has been linked with the development of a number of Fosamax side effects. Fosamax users often suffer from a number of GI tract abnormalities, some of which can include:
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramping
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Obstipation (severe constipation)
- Ulceration of the esophagus
In addition to the occurrence of relatively mild GI tract abnormalities, there are a number of general Fosamax side effects that can result from use of the bisphosphonate drug:
- Skin rash (rare potential of resulting in Stevens Johnson Syndrome or TEN)
- Eye problems
- Generalized pain of the muscles, joints and/or bones
Serious Fosamax Side Effects - Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Although some of the aforementioned Fosamax side effects can potentially manifest themselves in a severe nature, the most serious Fosamax side effect is the development of a bone disease called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), or "dead jaw."
Osteonecrosis is a type of bone disease that is commonly associated with large joints like the hips, knees, ankles or shoulders. The onset of ONJ is linked with the temporary or permanent loss of blood to bone tissue, leading to death of the tissue and the eventual collapse of the bone. There are approximately 10,000 to 20,000 new cases of osteonecrosis diagnosed each year in the United States, most of which occur as a result of some type of bone injury such as a fracture or dislocation.
Fosamax users run the risk of developing a serious case of osteonecrosis of the jaw and suffering through the extreme pain associated with the death of jawbone tissue. The pain associated with ONJ is said to be similar to that which is suffered by arthritics. Symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw can include localized pain of the jaw / maxillofacial region, a feeling of numbness or altered sensation, the loosening of teeth, soft tissue infections, and the exposure of bone within the oral cavity.
Fosamax users displaying any of the aforementioned ONJ symptoms should consult with their doctor immediately. If a case of osteonecrosis of the jaw goes undetected or untreated, it can potentially lead to the death of bone tissue and irreversible joint collapse within the jaw.
Fosamax Lawsuits
Because of the serious nature of certain Fosamax side effects and the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw, Merck & Co. has already found itself the target of a number of personal injury lawsuits filed by people victimized by the bisphosphonate drug.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of using a bisphosphonate drug such as Fosamax, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your pain and suffering. Merck & Co. face significant personal injury liabilities related to side effects resulting from use of their bisphosphonate drug. Contact a personal injury lawyer today to get additional information about your rights as a Fosamax victim. 