Osteocrenosis of the Jaw (ONJ) is a condition in which the jaw bone becomes dead because of a lack of blood supply. Osteo means bone and necrosis means death. Due to lack of blood, the jaw bone (mandible) begins to die, causing pain and deterioration. ONJ has been associated with radiation ,infection, steroid use or bisphosphonate therapy.
Bisphosphonates are drugs used to strengthen and protect the bones.
Fosamax, a widely used bisphosphonate drug manufactured by Merck & Co, was recently linked to jaw bone decay and Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). As a result FDA issued a public health advisory to health professionals about the risks of Fosamax.
You should not take Fosamax if you have esophagus(tube connecting mouth to stomach) disorder, are not able to stand/sit upright for 30mins, severe kidney disease or allergic to Fosamax.
Symptoms of ONJ are:
- Non-healing of a tooth socket after extraction
- Exposed bone area in the mouth
- Gum swelling
- Heaviness or numbness in the jaw
- Jaw pain
- Loose teeth
- Pus discharge
There is uncertainty among researchers, as to why the usage of some bisphosphonate drugs can lead to the development of ONJ. It has been suggested that bisphosphonates prevents formation of new blood vessels within bone tissue, inhibits the natural healing process thereby allowing bone mass degradation. Estimates suggest that there have been more than 125 ONJ and bisphosphonate drug related cases.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of developing a case of Osteonecrosis (ONJ) of the jaw from the usage of bisphosphonate drugs you may be eligible to receive compensation for your pain and suffering. If you are not sure who to contact, just fill out the form given in this page or give us a call and we would provide you with the required expert advice free of cost on how to go about it.
