Since as early as 2006, hundreds, if not thousands, of lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers of Fosamax, Merck & Company, due to the high risk of developing osteonecrosis of the jaw or ONJ. Approximately 2,400 people who have used Fosamax have developed ONJ, or dead jaw. ONJ usually occurs when the jaw bone is exposed and begins to suffer from a lack of blood. The bone then begins to weaken and die, which can be excruciatingly painful. People across the United States are currently filing suit against Merck for marketing the benefits of Fosamax while minimizing, or allegedly hiding, the harsh side effects.

Fosamax was approved by the FDA in 1995 to treat osteoporosis in post-menopausal women, osteoporosis in men, steroid-induced osteoporosis, and Paget’s disease of the bone. It is in a class of drugs called bisphosphonates that helps prevent loss of bone mass and inhibits the breakdown of old or damaged bones. Since its approval, Fosamax has been used by over 20 million people worldwide. The severity of the adverse side effects and the widespread use of this osteoporosis drug demonstrate that this legal issue should not be taken lightly.

If you or someone you know has experienced ONJ or dead jaw as a result of taking Fosamax, you may be entitled to compensation for you medical bills or other related damages. To see if you have a claim or to discuss your legal options, contact the Fosamax litigation attorneys at Arias, Ozzello & Gignac today for a free consultation.