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Health News Archive 681 - Bone Mineral Density
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Cases of Jaw Bone Death Caused by Fosamax Often Unreported

Merck, maker of osteoporosis drug Fosamax, may have “seriously under reported” the risks of "jawbone death" related to the drug, according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. A class-action lawsuit has been filed claiming that Merck knew about the risk of jawbone death but hid it from the public.

"Jawbone death" is associated with the use of a bisphosphonate class of drugs (to which Fosamax belongs). Also known as Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (BRONJ), is a serious side effect that destroys the bone in the jaw, and is difficult to treat.

BRONJ was reported by oral surgeons, who noticed the condition among patients treated with intravenous forms of bisphosphonates in 2003. A broader warning of BRONJ was issued for the entire class of drugs in 2005.

Fosamax is prescribed to about 10 million men and women -- mostly postmenopausal women -- each year to help increase bone density, with annual sales of $3 billion. Over 190 million prescriptions for oral bisphosphonate drugs have been dispensed worldwide.

The article does not mention that taking daily calcium and vitamin D-3 supplements is required with the drugs. 

See also:

• Osteoporosis Drugs Don't Work Without Hi-Dose Calcium and Vitamin D-3
• Calcium and Vitamin D Increase Bone Mineral Density in Elderly
• Vitamin K from Natto Reduces Bone Loss 80%
• Vitamin K Reduces Osteoarthritis Risk by 40%

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