Fosamax Alternatives

Alternatives to Fosamax may be considered after reports of side effects resulting in decay of bone in the jaw, hip, knee and shoulder.

Studies have shown that the long term use of Fosamax may increase the risk of a serious side effects in the jawbone known as osteonecrosis of the jaw. Additional research has suggested that Fosamax side effects may also lead to decay or death of bone in the hip, knee or shoulder, leading many individuals to seek Fosamax alternatives for treatment of osteoporosis.

ALTERNATIVES TO FOSAMAX

If you or a family member are taking Fosamax and have concerns over whether you should continue taking the drug, you should immediately consult with your doctor or physician.  An evaluation will need to be made by the physician to determine whether an alternative to Fosamax may be recomended. Alternatives to Fosamax for osteoporosis may include other medications, natural remedies or preventative measures..

ALTERNATIVE DRUGS FOR FOSAMAX

Fosamax has been approved for treatment of osteoporosis, osteopenia and Paget’s disease of the bone. Other prescription medications may be used to mimimize the further loss of bone mass density, prevent fractures and maintain function.  Fosamax and Fosamax Plus D are currently the most prescribed medicines for osteoporosis in post-menopausal women.  However, several Fosamax alternative medications may be recommended by your doctor. The National Osteoporosis Foundation website contains information about the various medications available to prevent and treat this condition as well as potential new osteoporosis medications which may become available.

It is important to be aware that Fosamax is a bisphosphonate medication, and other bisphosphonates which are used to treat osteoporosis, (including Actonel) may carry similar risks for jaw bone damage and bone decay.

NATURAL ALTERNATIVE REMEDIES FOR OSTEOPOROSIS

Fosamax natural alternatives may be suggested by your doctor.  A daily supplement of Vitamin D and Calcium are often recommended by physicians as a natural remedy for osteoporosis, or to be taken with medications.

Another natural treatment alternative to Fosamax for osteoporosis is to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of fracture.  Some preventative remedies for osteoporosis which may be recommended by your doctor include:

• maintain adequate body weight (lower body weight and muscle mass increases the risk of lower bone mass)
• increase walking and other weight-bearing exercises
• minimize caffeine, coffee and alcohol
• decrease smoking
• improve vision through proper prescription glasses to prevent falling which could lead to fractures
• physical stability programs and education about prevention of falling

FOSOMAX WARNINGS DO NOT REQUIRE STOPPING USE

The FDA has issued a statement warning of the jaw and bone decay side effects associated with bisphosphonates such as Fosamax. Currently, however, there are no official statements or warnings which would indicate that patients must stop taking Fosamax, or other oral bisphosphonates for treatment of osteoporosis.  Legal claims are being pursued for users who developed serious side effects from Fosamax due to the manufacturers failure to warn. If the use of Fosamax is continued, preventative measures should be taken to reduce the risks of osteonecrosis of the jaw.

If you or a family member have taken Fosamax and been diagnosed with osteonecrosis of the jaw, osteonecrosis of the hip, osteonecrosis of the knee or osteonecrosis of the shoulder, request a free consultation regarding your legal rights.  Our Fosamax lawyers have the experience and resources to fight the pharmaceutical company and make sure you obtain the compensation you may be entitled to.

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