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Bisphosphonates Can Cause Jaw Bone Death

They are increasingly prescribed in both women and men for the treatment and prevention of thinning and weakening bones (osteoporosis). But recent studies are showing that despite their popularity, bisphosphonate drugs carry significant risks for patients who use the drugs long term, including osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) and other long-term health issues.

Growing Popularity

With an increasingly aged population, bisphosphonates such as Zometa, Fosamax, Aredia, Boniva, and Actonel are gaining popularity in this country and abroad. Administered in both intravenous and tablet forms, these popular bisphosphonate drugs are prescribed - some would say overprescribed - to women and men who take the drugs over a long period of time to treat and prevent osteoporosis-related bone loss.

What is ONJ?

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a rare syndrome in which jaw bone tissue dies after trauma. Symptoms include jaw pain, inflammation, fever, swelling, and sores with exposed bone tissue. There is no cure for ONJ; while antibiotic routines and surgery can be prescribed, there is no way to awaken dead bone. ONJ is more common in patients who have taken steroids or who have an extensive cancer history; however, ONJ can occur in patients of any age and medical history.

Why Do Bisphosphonates Cause ONJ?

Bisphosphonates mimic pyrophosphate, a salt manufactured by our body which is key in both metabolic and bone regeneration processes. They allow bones to gain mass by inhibiting bone resorption, but studies are now showing that this process may interrupt the natural balance gained by the body in bone generation, causing a backfire in which microfractures are unable to heal after trauma, such as that incurred during dental surgery.

Intravenous Bisphosphonates Riskiest

A May 2006 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that 94 percent of the cases of ONJ occurred in patients who took bisphosphonates intravenously. Dental procedures, such as extractions or implants, were found to increase the risk of bone necrosis in traumatized jaw bones, but the patients who complained of ONJ were not always veterans of recent dental procedures. However, the study did recommend that patients complete dental surgery prior to going on bisphosphonate drugs.

Have You Been Affected?

If you are a patient who has been affected by bisphosphonate side effects, seek proper medical intervention immediately. Then contact an experienced attorney with expertise in unsafe drug litigation. Your bisphosphonate lawyer can evaluate your potential case and tell you if you qualify for financial restitution for expenses such as medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced bisphosphonate lawyer can help you file your claim and bring your case to settlement.

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