subject: Important Information About The Other Side Effects Of Fosamax [print this page] Osteoporosis is one of the major health problems that causes alarm in people, especially women in their menopausal stage. The mere thought that they might already have the disease before they know it may be the root of this fear. In fact, some women opt to undergo an osteoporosis screening despite its being unnecessary. Help can also come from medicines, among biphosphonates, of which Fosamax is an example. Fosamax has been linked to the abrupt increase of people experiencing femur fractures. Now, this Fosamax issue resulted to studies devoted to explaining these femur fractures.
The suffering caused by Fosamax is not only because of femur fractures. It is an essential thing to know about these other conditions found and reported because it can be helpful.
Cancer of the Esophagus
Fosamax has been known to irritate the digestive tract, especially the esophagus. Yet, there is a study saying that taking Fosamax for a long time could double the likelihood of anyone developing esophageal cancer. To diminish this effect, it is advised that one should remain in an upright stance for at least 30 minutes 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 blamed on the drug. Merck, the manufacturers of Fosamax, included this on the side effects column of its medication guide. Yet many health care providers still overlook this. Most of them just regard these pains as normal. This would cause a delay in the diagnosis, lengthen impairment, and require the use of analgesics.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Another very alarming side effect that has been linked to prolonged Fosamax use is the death of a jawbone tissue, also known as osteonecrosis of the jaw. Oftentimes the patient would feel pain in the jaw, swelling, numbness, or loose teeth. As a precaution, it is best to tell your dentist, before a dental procedure is done, that you are taking the prescription drug Fosamax. A temporary halt of your therapy may be necessary.
Atypical Fracture of the Thigh Bone
In 2008 the Journal of Orthopedic Trauma reported a number of long-term Fosamax patients who sustained a rare, low-impact fracture on their femur. While a deeper investigation was still ongoing, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered to have the Fosamax label updated. Consequently, some doctors would now prescribe Fosamax to their patients for a period of not longer than four years even without FDA advice.
No matter how disturbing these side effects of Fosamax may sound, it is important to note that not everyone taking the drug experienced all these ailments. It would be best to ask your doctor about your risks and how to prevent the said problems especially problems such as Fosamax femur fracture, which may keep on increasing.
