Fosamax

Timeline FOSAMAX 2007: The New England Journal of Medicine published two studies on bisphosphonate drugs like Fosamax and found an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. S Atrial Fibrillation Fosamax (alendronate) is a bisphosphonate drug used to treat osteoporosis and other bone conditions. It works by inhibiting bone resorption, which occurs when bone cells break down bone and transfer the minerals into the bloodstream. Basically, inhibiting bone resorption slows the progression of osteoporosis and other bone conditions. In 1995, the FDA approved Fosamax for sale on the market by Merck. In February 2008, Merck lost its patent on Fosamax and several generic versions of the drug became available on the market from companies such as Barr Pharmaceuticals and Teva Pharmaceuticals. Within its first 10 years on the market, Fosamax had sales of almost $3.2 billion. 2008: In January, an FDA Alert stated that there is a "possibility of severe and sometimes incapacitating bone, joint, and/or muscle (musculoskeletal) pain in patients taking bisphosphonates." Such pain may occur days, weeks, or years after using drugs like Fosamax and may continue after the patients has stopped using the drug. In February, Merck's patent on Fosamax expired and generic versions of the drug became available. FDA Alert Common Side Effects: PRESCRPT SNCE WEEKLY Swelling 2010: The FDA updated Fosamax's label to include warnings about fractures to the thigh (subtrochanteric and diaphyseal femur fractures). The fractures occur near the hip and the FDA noted that "these unusual femur fractures have been predominantly reported in patients taking bisphosphonates." FOSAMAX Diarrhea Nausea NCE E Severe heartburn Chest pain Hip Fractures Serious Side Effects: Severe musculoskeletal pain 2011: The FDA announced that there was an ongoing investigation between bisphosphonates and an increased risk of esophageal cancer as well as kidney impairment. Kidney impairment Osteonecrosis of the jaw, also known as dead jaw syndrome Bone fracture, especially fracture of the thigh (femur) or hip (pelvis) Increased Risk & 88 Esophageal cancer Atrial fibrillation 2012: The New England Journal of Medicine published research of two studies of 2,342 post-menopausal women which "showed little benefit of continued bisphosphonate treatment beyond five years." Call d'Oliveira & Associates at 1-800-992-6878 for a free Consultation