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Public Citizen Names Two Groups For Whom Fosamax Has No Benefit of Therapy
Bone-strengthening medication Fosamax became one of the bestselling drugs in the United States and the rest of North America due to the millions of people taking this drug for osteoporosis. Unfortunately, the benefits of this bisphosphonate comes along with unwanted consequences like the risk osteonecrosis of the jaw. Now, what is osteonecrosis of the jaw and what everyone needs to know about this serious dental condition?
In a recent food and drug Administration (FDA) meeting, the issue about doctors prescribing bisphosphonates indiscriminately was also addressed. Furthermore, consumer activist Public Citizen cited two groups who are not gaining therapeutic benefits from Fosamax medications. These people may be needlessly risking themselves to this jaw bone condition.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw, commonly referred to as ONJ or “dead jaw,” is a disease characterized by an exposure of the jawbone. This bone tissue is poorly nourished with blood until it ultimately “dies” or necrotizes. The terms “Bis-Phossy Jaw” and BON are invented by scientists who refer to ONJ as having been brought by the use of bisphosphonates, such as Fosamax.
During the early stage of ONJ, patient would appear to have no symptoms until the disease develops, in which one could feel pain, swelling and redness usually associated with gum infection. A trademark for ONJ is the (visible exposure of) bone tissue which may last for more than eight weeks. Moreover, dental procedures like tooth extraction could aggravate the condition.
ONJ is generally treated with non-surgical approach consisting of antimicrobial rinses, systemic antibiotics, systemic or topical antifungal treatment and pain relievers. In later stages, treatment might require surgical debridement or resection in conjunction with other nonsurgical treatment. It is imperative to inform the dentist if one is on a bisphosphonate treatment before any surgical intervention – no matter how minor - is carried out
The revisions involving ONJ risk made by Merck on Fosamax label per FDA’s request have been made available to the public in July 2005. However, a number of long-term Fosamax users claimed that Merck failed to properly warn the public about the risks, causing them to suffer from side effects and other repercussions. Consequently the affected parties initiated the filing of Fosamax lawsuit against the maker of the drug.
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