Add broken bones to the list of possible side effects of the popular Osteoporosis drug, Fosamax, which millions of women take to prevent bone fractures and bone loss associated with menopause. There have already been warnings that bisphosphonate drugs, including Actonel, Reclast and Boniva, can cause severe musculoskeletal pain and a serious bone-related jaw disease called osteonecrosis. There were even concerns in 2008 about related heart problems.
ABC News reported earlier this week that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been aware of reports of spontaneous fractures, but did not inform the public or doctors who prescribe bisphosphonates of the possible side effect. An FDA spokesman explained to ABC News that they didn’t think it was necessary at this time. However, today, the FDA announced that it will indeed investigate the possibility of a link between long-term use of osteoporosis drugs and thigh bone fractures though, “at this point, the data that FDA has reviewed have not shown a clear connection between bisphosphonate use and a risk of atypical subtrochanteric femur fractures,” the statement said.
Bisphosphonates are vital for women who are at high risk for Osteoporosis. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, half of all women over the age of 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis and more than 20 percent who break a hip die within one year. “For most people taking bisphosphonate medicines, the benefits outweigh the risks of these unusual but serious conditions that appear to be associated with them,” the NOF said in a written statement on their website. “These medicines play an important role in stopping bone loss and preventing broken bones.”
Though bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed — some argue that they are overprescribed for women with marginal bone loss, or osteopinia-- you should carefully consider the need for taking osteoporosis medicine if your doctor thinks you’re a good candidate for drug therapy. If you’ve had the bone mineral density test, obtain a copy of the report and go to this website for an explanation that will help you understand what the results mean. Then review the findings with your doctor and ask questions.
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When I heard the news last night about the American Drug Cartel once again hiding the side effects of another unproven drug marketer toward women I was really not very surprised. I have always had issue with Sally Field being the spokes person for Boniva as she get paid very well to do the commercials which is why I am against celebrity endorsing drugs.
I myself recently had a bone density test because I am 57. I was stunned when they told me that I had osteopinia. A recent blood tested indicated I have low vitamin D. So my doctor recommended my taking Vitamin D and Calcium. A friend who has been in the natural health field advised me about a product she says is far better for bone health. http://www.newchapter.com/products/bone-strength-take-care.
Don’t usually recommend things I have not tried but I know when it comes to natural vs synthetic you certainly are making a much better choice for yourself. I will be going to the natural health store in my home town today to try this product.
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