Over the years, medication has helped nearly 10 million postmenopausal women prevent or treat bone loss or osteoporosis. These medications are called bisphosphonates and are commonly marketed as Fosamax®, Boniva® and Actonel®. They are also used in cancer patients whose disease has spread to the bone and has caused or is in danger of causing severe bone pain or fractures. These medications work by inhibiting osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone, making the bones thicker and less likely to break. Unfortunately, occasionally these medications create the opposite condition, making bones weaker. One reason that bisphosphonates may accomplish the opposite of their intended effect is that osteoclasts also prompt osteoblasts (the cells that build up bone) to form.

These prescribed medications have been linked to cases of bone jaw decay or osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), also known as "dead jaw syndrome." ONJ keeps the jawbones of patients from healing properly after routine dental procedures, and in extreme cases causes jawbones to rot and die. ONJ also causes dental problems such as swelling of the gums, loosening of the teeth, and severe infections that often require extensive and expensive antibiotics or surgical treatment. Several independent studies discovered that a number patients taking Fosamax developed this dangerous and debilitating condition despite the claims by the manufacturer, Merck, that it was safe.

Since 1991, over 2,400 patients have suffered from bone death in their jaws after taking medication to prevent or treat bone loss. Several of the impacted patients were taking the drugs intravenously. Only 10 percent, on average, of drug side effects are reported to the FDA, so the total number of people suffering from these side effects could be considerably higher. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released a warning letter to health professionals to alert them to the link between medications like Fosamax and ONJ.

Large drug manufacturers and distributors have an obligation and a duty to communicate the warnings and side effects of their products in a timely manner. When they fail to put consumer safety first, innocent victims pay the price with their life and health. You may be entitled to receive compensation for the pain and suffering caused by a manufacturer's negligence and oversight. There are statutes of limitations involved, so contact a Civil Justice Prosecutor to help you secure the justice you deserve before it is too late.

If you or a loved one developed ONJ due to Fosamax®, please fill out the form at the right for a free case evaluation by a qualified Civil Justice Prosecutor.

Note - Do not change medications without first consulting your doctor.