Bone Loss

Bones are an important part of the musculoskeletal system. Because bones are live tissue, their health is paramount to overall good health. When the strength or integrity of the bones is compromised, several health problems may result.

Many factors can contribute to bone loss, including genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle. Bone loss and damage has also been linked to certain medications, including Avandia, Fosamax, Nexium and Prilosec. The manufacturers of these drugs have been widely criticized for their failure to adequately inform physicians and patients of the risks associated with their drugs. If you have suffered bone loss or damage while taking one of these medications, contact Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz at (888) 255-2956 to see if you may be eligible for compensation to pay for medical and legal bills, as well as punitive damages.

What is Bone Loss?

Collectively, the bones are like a multitasking employee of your body. Bones support your heart, lungs and marrow; they protect your brain and other internal organs; they serve as an attachment site for your muscles, store minerals, defend against acidosis and trap “bad” minerals such as lead. But while bones are literally as strong as cast iron, they are fairly susceptible to damage.
 
Like other tissues, bones attempt to heal on their own as soon as they are damaged. When something interferes with this process, the effects can be devastating. Results of recent studies have suggested that the popular drug Fosamax may interfere with the healing process of the jawbone; ironically, Fosamax was designed to protect the bones of postmenopausal women. Other drugs such as Avandia, Nexium and Prilosec may increase the risk of bone fractures.

Causes of Bone Loss

Some of the most common factors leading to the weakening or deterioration of bones include:

• Menopause – estrogen promotes strong bones, so the loss of estrogen that occurs during menopause can lead to bone loss
• Low body fat – because body fat increases estrogen levels, thin people are also at increased risk of bone loss
• Family history
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Calcium/vitamin D/magnesium deficiency
• Inactivity
• Diseases and health problems such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, anorexia nervosa, Cushing's disease and chronic kidney failure
• Certain hormone therapies for breast cancer  

Several medications have also been linked to bone loss:

Avandia

Avandia is used to treat type 2 diabetes patients (also called adult-onset diabetes and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus). This type of diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or when the body responds inappropriately to insulin production. Avandia lowers blood sugar, which is important for keeping type 2 diabetes under control.

Studies have shown that Avandia may lower bone density in women, leading to an increased risk of fractures. In addition, Avandia may cause heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of Avandia, may have been negligent in informing doctors and patients of these side effects. If you have experienced health problems while taking Avandia, you may be eligible for compensation.

Fosamax

Fosamax is a medication designed to reduce the risk of hip fractures in postmenopausal women. Although no direct connection has been definitively established, studies have suggested and some doctors believe that the drug may lead to a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), or deterioration of the jawbone. Osteonecrosis, also known as “dead jaw” for its devastating effects, often results in extreme and chronic pain.

Although medications can be prescribed both to treat this pain and to combat infections resulting from ONJ, there is no cure for the condition. If you have experienced symptoms consistent with osteonecrosis while taking Fosamax, we may be able to help you gain compensation.

Nexium and Prilosec

A recent British study found that taking heartburn drugs such as Nexium and Prilosec can put you at much higher risk for hip fracture. Nexium and Prilosec belong to a class of drugs (“proton pump inhibitors”) that treat heartburn by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. In doing so, these medications may make it harder for the body to absorb calcium, a key ingredient to strong bones.

If you fractured your hip while taking Nexium or Prilosec, contact our office today.

Your Legal Rights

Bone loss and bone fractures can have a devastating effect on your life. The companies that make Avandia, Fosamax, Nexium and Prilosec have been accused of neglecting to properly inform doctors and patients of the risks associated with their medications. If you have suffered bone loss or damage while taking one of these drugs, contact Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz at (888) 255-2956 since we may be able to help you gain compensation for medical expenses, emotional stress and punitive damages.