Biophosphonate, Fosamax Side Effects to Be Reviewed by FDA

Oral biophosphonates like Fosamax, Actonel, Boniva, and Reclast used to treat osteoporosis will come under evaluation by the FDA. In a press release dated July 11, 2011, the FDA announced that a panel of outside advisors will meet on September 6, 2011 to discuss the side effects allegedly associated with biophosphonate drugs, as well as complications reportedly linked to their long-term use.

A growing number of recent lawsuits are alleging that the company did not warn patients about the risk of developing a rare femur fracture.

Of this particular group of drugs, Fosamax has been cited in hundreds of lawsuits alleging that extended use caused osteonecrosis of the jaw, a severe and debilitating condition causing the jaw bone to rot and decay. Often, when osteonecrosis of the jaw occurs, patients need to have parts of their jaw surgically removed. According to the Fosamax lawsuits, the manufacturer, Merck, was allegedly responsible for failing to provide a warning about the risk of developing jaw problems, in addition to failing to properly research Fosamax’s potential side effects.

Now, Merck has a new set of Fosamax-related woes. A growing number of recent lawsuits are alleging that the company did not warn patients about the risk of developing a rare femur fracture reportedly associated with biophosphonate drugs. In October of 2010, the FDA updated the warning label on all biophosphonates, requiring manufacturers to add new information concerning the risk of these potential bone fractures that can occur with little or no trauma to the thigh bone.

If you or a loved one suffered a Fosamax femur fracture while taking the medication, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills incurred to treat the fracture. Pain and suffering damages could also be sought through a Fosamax lawsuit, as it has been reported that some patients who experience a Fosamax femur fracture suffered from severe pain and swelling. Complete the free form on the right to find out if you have legal recourse.