Fosamax
FOSAMAX® and Bisphosphonates Injury Lawyers
Osteoporosis drug linked to bone fractures
Millions of Americans are prescribed Fosamax® to help improve their bone density and fight osteoporosis. However, evidence suggests that Fosamax® and its generic equivalent (alendronate), may actually be doing more harm than good and may be the cause of unusual and painful low-energy fractures of the femur (thigh bone).
Fosamax® linked to atypical femur fractures
Originally approved in 1995, Fosamax® is manufactured by Merck & Co, Inc. and belongs to a family of drugs known as bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates are routinely prescribed to post-menopausal women and other individuals who are known to be at a high-risk of bone density deterioration.
In 2008, the results of an observational study, published in the Journal of Orthopedic Trauma, linked Fosamax® to a distinct type of fracture in the femur. The study of some 70 patients experiencing low-energy femur fractures (which occur when someone falls from a standing height or less) revealed that these patients all suffered a similar and distinct straight-line fracture of their femur. Furthermore, of the patients studied, more than a third had been taking Fosamax® for an average of five years or more.
Prolonged use of Fosamax® puts women at higher risk
Since the findings of that 2008 study, it would appear that orthopedic surgeons and bone specialists are continuing to see more and more of these unusual fractures among long-term users of Fosamax®, particularly in women. In February 2011, the results of a Canadian study, published in the online edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association suggested that women who had been on bisphosphonates such as Fosamax® for more than five years, had nearly three times higher risk of these unusual fractures than those with only transient exposure to the drugs.
FDA safety warnings
At the present time, FDA has not seen fit to issue a nationwide recall of Fosamax® or any of its generic equivalents and the drugs still remains commercially available. However, the FDA has issued numerous other warnings and consumer safety communications regarding bisphosphonates.
Act now. You may be entitled to money damages
If you, or someone you know has suffered a painful or sudden fracture after taking Fosamax®, Our lawyers may be able to help. We would be would be happy to review your records to determine whether you have a viable case against Merck & Co., Inc., or any other manufacturer. Call toll-free 1-877-332-9276 for a free evaluation of your case.
