Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

The worse possible side effect associated with the use of Fosamax is called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), or "dead jaw." ONJ affects the tissue and bone of the face.

The distinguishing feature of osteonecrosis of the jaw is temporary or permanent loss of blood to bone tissue. When blood is unable to reach bone tissue, tissue can die and bones can deteriorate. About 10,000 to 20,000 new Americans fight osteonecrosis each year. Many of these cases come about after a bone injury.

Some researchers believe ONJ can be caused as a result of using bisphosphonate drugs like Fosamax. Those with osteonecrosis of the jaw may experience chronic pain (similar to that or arthritis).

Symptoms of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

ONJ symptoms may lay dormant for months. A trip to the dentist may culminate in a diagnosis of osteonecrosis of the jaw.

The following symptoms of ONJ illustrate that point:

• Loose teeth
• Exposed bone
• Jaw / gum Pain
• Jaw / gum swelling
• Jaw / gum infection
• Jaw numbness; loss of sensation
• Dramatic gum loss

Bisphosphonate users taking drugs such as Fosamax, Actonel and Zometa should be closely monitored by their prescribing doctor. ONJ can lead to bone tissue dying and bone / joint collapse.

Bisphosphonates and Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Researchers have not yet provided a direct connection between bisphosphonate drugs and osteonecrosis of the jaw, though initial research certainly suggests a link between the two. Some doctors believe bisphosphonate drugs prevent new blood vessel formation in jawbone tissue. If new blood vessels are not produced, jawbone tissue cannot heal as intended and bone(s) may be destroyed.

Bisphosphonate drugs have been blamed for about 125 cases of osteonecrosis of the jaw. Pamidronate and zoledronate are among those in question, while more recently alendronate (Fosamax) has been under the microscope.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw - Diagnosis and Treatment

Osteonecrosis of the jaw can be found via x-ray. A bone tissue biopsy may be able to find other diseases, but a biopsy is dangerous and could create more complications for a patient.

ONJ is treatable, especially if diagnosed in its earliest stages. While a cure has not yet been found, palliative treatment can alleviate pain and impove quality of life. Antibiotics fight jaw infections and custom hardware pieces protect jawbone. Surgery can remove tissue but is also extremely risky: patients may die or be unable to eat because of the procedure.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Legal Issues

Osteonecrosis of the jaw victims who developed the disease after using Fosamax are entitled to compensation for their pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you with a fosamax lawsuit.