by Joost J. Bakker IJmuiden

Article by Ronald Redman

One of the most popular drug with around 37 million written prescriptions for just a year is the medicine called Fosamax. But positive impressions are now changing as its adverse impacts have been reported. Medical conditions that are closely tied to the consequences of this drug are femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). As a result, female Fosamax users are advised to go through a regular femur scan.

Fosamax is generically known as alendronate sodium. Biphosphonates is the group of medicines to which Fosamax belongs and helps in the bone cycle formation. Prevention of bone fracture happens through this drug because it can slow down bone loss and increase bone mass.

Men and women who have been afflicted of osetoporosis due to menopause or the use of steroids can find benefits in Fosamax. This drug is also helpful among people who have Paget’s Disease which is defined as a disorder with bones being brittle and malformed. The use of this drug is also beneficial among those who are suffering from osteopenia, which is a medical condition in people who have low bone mineral density.

Fosamax therapy should be taken with precaution since it may interfere with the effects of other drugs. The likelihood of other medications contributing to the Fosamax femur fractures is now being considered.

Besides the anticipated effects, Fosamax intake may also cause unintended side effects to the body, some of which are positiveand otherwise less favorable. Nevertheless, off-label use of the drug is strongly discouraged because of the possible harm brought about the drug to the body.

Fosamax Side Effects

If you are under a Fosamax therapy and any of the following side effects happen, please contact your doctor immediately.

Constipation or diarrheaBloating or feeling full, mild heartburnDizziness, headache, eye painMild back, muscle, or joint painMild nausea, vomiting or stomach pain

Hold therapy and immediately seek medical attention if any of the following serious effects are felt:

Severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing)Chest painDifficulty (dysphagia) or painful (odynophagia) swallowingPain or burning sensation under the ribs or in the backSevere heart burn, burning epigastric (upper stomach) pain, or coughing of bloodNew or worsening heartburnFever, body aches, flu-like symptoms

Severe musculoskeletal pain

New or unusual pain in your thigh or hip

Jaw pain, numbness or swelling.

The use of Fosamax should only considered when it is advised by a doctor. This should also come with the information regarding the period of therapy. If possible, try asking your doctor about the potential side effects of the drug as the number of people filing a Fosamax lawsuit is constantly increasing.

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