New Fosamax Reports Negatively Effect Prescription Rates

With all of the recent negative reports on Fosamax, it isn't surprising that prescription rates for this drug have dropped. The real question, however, is whether or not this is the best outcome for patients' health. Although it is undoubtedly important to stay safe and avoid potentially serious drug side effects, could some patients be more at risk by not using Fosamax?

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The new Fosamax reports in question are attacking the drug in two different ways. First, studies have shown that the side effect leading to osteonecrosis of the jaw (dead jaw), Fosamax femur fractures, and other bone-related problems could be much more prevalent that initially thought. One study reported by the American Dental Association claims that patients taking Fosamax at 4% more likely to develop osteonecrosis of the jaw.

The scarier claim for most, however, is the potential link between Fosamax and cancer. The Food and Drug Administration and similar departments in other countries have received almost 50 reports from Fosamax patients that have developed tumors in their throats. Merck has defended their drug, saying that the numbers are negligible compared to the millions of people who are taking or have taken Fosamax in the past, and based on current reports, they are right. However, when the media says the word "cancer," the public generally reacts pretty strongly, and that is definitely the case with Fosamax, and other bisphosphonate drugs.

There are currently well over 650 Fosamax lawsuits that have been filed, and more patients are talking to lawyers every day about filing suit against Merck. The real problem is not so much from these Fosamax lawsuits themselves, but from others that are taking the drug awho discontinue use before a verdict has been reached. Doctors agree that before any final judgment is made, more studies by independent companies have to be completed. Currently, Merck's results are at odds with claims, showing that Fosamax is both effective and safe to use. Until reports are fully investigated, though, some doctors have decided to stop prescribing the drug. They see the Fosamax risks as too high.

In many case, though, it is the patient that is making the final call. Only knowing what the media is reporting, some osteoporosis patients are refusing to use the medication, believing that the Fosamax risks too greatly outweigh potential benefits. This isn't always the case. Although Fosamax injury reports can sound scary, so is osteoporosis, which accounts for many serious medical problems every year. People who abruptly stop using Fosamax and other bisphosphonate drugs might be doing more harm than good.

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If you are an osteoporosis patient, the key is to do your research. Certain patients, like those with non-related throat problems or dental considerations are at a higher risk for complications due to using Fosamax. For these patients, discontinuing use of the drug might make sense. For others, however, the best course of action may be to continue using the drug to treat osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor, and if you believe you've been injured due to taking Fosamax, contact a lawyer right away to see if a lawsuit with Fosamax maker Merck is the right path for you.

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