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Osteoporosis is now considered as one of the major health problems and now it has caused many women especially in the menopausal stage to worry. Moreover, some women would even undergo unnecessary osteoporosis screening for the fear that they might already have the disease before they know it. Consequently, they may be prescribed with bisphosphonates like Fosamax, which, however, have been linked to several critical side effects. Esophageal Cancer We have been warned that Fosamax can highly irritate the esophagus. In line to that, there is a research suggesting that taking Fosamax for a period of time could increase your chances of having esophageal cancer. To lessen the risk of esophageal damage, it is best to sit upright or stand for more than no less than half an hour after taking the drug. Severe Musculoskeletal Pain Severe pain on the bone, muscle or joints – especially in the hip, groin or thigh area is another severe side effect said to have caused by the drug. Although Merck – the manufacturer of Fosamax – listed this side effect on the medication guide of Fosamax, it is often overlooked by health care provider as a normal ache. This results in a delay in diagnosis, prolonged impairment and a necessity of analgesics. Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Another very alarming side effect that has been linked to prolonged Fosamax use is the death of a jaw bone tissue also known as osteonecrosis of the jaw. Most of the time, it presents a severe pain in the jaw accompanied with swelling, numbness, or loose teeth. If you need undergo any dental procedure, it is best to inform your dentist ahead that you are using Fosamax. A temporary halt of your therapy may be necessary. Atypical Fracture of the Thigh Bone In a large research released in the Journal of Orthopedic Trauma last 2008, it was revealed that a considerable number of Fosamax patients over a long period have suffered a low-impact fracture of the thigh bone. While a deeper investigation is still ongoing, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggested to have the Fosamax label updated. Even without FDA’s statement some doctors recommended Fosamax to its patients over a short time or nothing more than 4 years. Despite being really troubling, it is essential to mention that not all patients taking Fosamax succumb to such pharmaceutical beacklash. It would be best to ask your doctor about your risks and how to thwart the said problems. A number of patients filed a Fosamax lawsuit against Merck for allegedly failing to properly warn its patients about the risks involved in taking the drug.
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Fosamax Lawsuit, Osteoporosis, Health, Drug, Medicine,
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