Fosamax Side Effects on the Jaw

Fosamax is the brand name for the medication alendronate sodium, in a class of drugs called bisphosphonates prescribed to treat and prevent osteoporosis. Manufactured by Merck and Co., the drug does not cause side effects in most people. However, it has been linked to one severe side effect which has resulted in lawsuits.

Osteonecrosis

Osteonecrosis of the jaw has been reported by people taking oral bisphosphonates; it is most frequently seen in the hips, knees, ankles and shoulders, and is linked with temporary or permanent loss of blood to bone tissue, often resulting in fractures.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of osteonecrosis are pain and limitation in range of motion. If untreated, it can progress to swelling, infection, bone tissue death, and exposed bone in the mouth.

Expert Insight

The link between bisphosphonates and jaw osteonecrosis surfaced in 2003, and a study published in a 2004 issue of the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (JOMS) determined that of 63 people with the condition, six had taken Fosamax.

Considerations

Most cases reported involving Fosamax have been associated with dental disease or a recent dental procedure, such as having a tooth removed.

Warning

If osteonecrosis of the jaw is not treated, it can lead to deterioration of bone tissue and irreversible joint collapse in the jaw.