Posted by Introduction
Fosamax is a bisphosphonate drug used to treat osteoporosis. It works by slowing down the breakdown of bone cells. Fosamax has been on the market for over 20 years, and it is one of the most popular osteoporosis drugs in the world.
However, in recent years, there have been a number of lawsuits filed against Merck, the manufacturer of Fosamax, alleging that the drug causes serious side effects, including atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
Lawsuit Update
In March 2022, a federal judge in New Jersey dismissed over 500 Fosamax lawsuits. The judge ruled that federal law preempted the plaintiffs’ state-law claims. This means that the plaintiffs cannot sue Merck in state court for failing to warn them about the risks of AFFs and ONJ.
However, there are still a number of Fosamax lawsuits pending in federal court. In November 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear one of these cases, which could have a significant impact on the future of Fosamax litigation.
What Patients Should Do
If you have taken Fosamax and you have experienced an AFF or ONJ, you should speak to an attorney to discuss your legal options. You may be able to file a lawsuit against Merck to recover damages for your injuries.
FAQs
Q: What is Fosamax?
Fosamax is a bisphosphonate drug used to treat osteoporosis. It works by slowing down the breakdown of bone cells.
Q: What are the side effects of Fosamax?
The most common side effects of Fosamax are mild and go away on their own. However, Fosamax can also cause serious side effects, such as AFFs and ONJ.
Q: What is an AFF?
An AFF is a rare type of fracture that occurs in the upper thigh bone. AFFs can be very painful and disabling.
Q: What is ONJ?
ONJ is a condition that causes the jawbone to die. ONJ can be very painful and can make it difficult to eat and speak.
Q: Can I sue Merck if I have experienced an AFF or ONJ after taking Fosamax?
Yes, you may be able to sue Merck if you have experienced an AFF or ONJ after taking Fosamax. However, it is important to speak to an attorney to discuss your legal options.
Q: How can I find a lawyer to help me with my Fosamax lawsuit?
There are a number of law firms that specialize in Fosamax lawsuits. You can find a lawyer by searching online or by contacting your local bar association.
Conclusion
The Fosamax litigation is still ongoing, but it is important for patients to know that they may have legal options if they have experienced an AFF or ONJ after taking Fosamax. If you have taken Fosamax and you have experienced any side effects, you should speak to a doctor and an attorney.
References
- Merck Defeats 500 Lawsuits Over Fosamax Bone-Fracture Risk Warnings: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/merck-defeats-500-lawsuits-over-fosamax-bone-fracture-risk-warnings-2022-03-24/
- Ending a 14-Year Battle, Merck Wins Dismissal of Suits Linking Fosamax to Fractured Femurs: https://www.law.com/njlawjournal/2022/03/23/ending-a-14-year-battle-merck-wins-dismissal-of-suits-linking-fosamax-to-fractured-femurs/
- Fosamax Lawsuit – Femur Fracture Risks: https://www.seegerweiss.com/drug-injury/fosamax/