Oral bisphosphonates are commonly administered to assist in the treatment and prevention of those suffering from osteoporosis. Perhaps more specifically, they also have the inherent ability to treat numerous bone diseases that can potentially lead to further deterioration of the skeletal structure. Unfortunately, there have been significant discoveries regarding catastrophic complications associated with the use of bisphosphonates. Patients who undergo a prolonged regimen of oral bisphosphonates may increase their risk of developing esophageal cancer. In addition to bisphosphonate esophageal cancer, these medications may also be responsible for a number of other side effects such as atypical fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
If you or a loved one has been injured by a bisphsphonoate, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Bisphosphonate Esophageal Cancer Lawsuit Overview
Bisphosphonates are used by millions of patients across the globe who are suffering from osteoporosis. More specifically, medications that are classified as bisphosphonates have the ability to inhibit the release of calcium from the skeletal structure. Therefore, bisphosphonates are able to prevent further deterioration of bone by increasing bone density and mass.
Through homeostasis, bone naturally undergoes turnover and is kept in balance by osteoblasts generating new bone and osteoclasts destroying old bone. This process assists in the healthy development of the skeletal structure. In patients with osteoporosis, bone dexterity is diminished at a more rapid rate than it is generated. Bisphosphonates inhibit the breakdown of bone by preventing the osteoclasts from destroying the bone any further. As a result, they promote the steady development of the skeletal structure.
Unfortunately, the prolonged use of bisphosphonate medications does not demonstrate a favorable risk-benefit profile. On July 21, 2011, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued a press release acknowledging a potential link between oral bisphosphonate drugs and an increased risk of esophageal cancer. The announcement comes in the wake of numerous reports of esophagitis and esophageal events, particularly in individuals who do not follow specific directions when using bisphosphonate medications. Due to the severity of these risks, patients may contact a bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation of their potential bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawsuit.
Popular Bisphosphonate Medications
The following is a list of the most popular bisphosphonates that patients use to treat osteoporosis:
- Aclasta
- Actonel
- Aredia
- Bondronat
- Boniva
- Didronel
- Fosamax
- Fosavance
- Reclast
- Skelid
- Zometa
Each of these medications are currently under strict evaluation by the FDA regarding their association with esophageal cancer and numerous other catastrophic side effects.
Bisphosphonate Side Effects
The following is a list of potential side effects caused by the prolonged us of bisphosphonate medications:
- Bisphosphonate esophageal cancer
- Esophagitis
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ)
- Atypical bone fractures
- Hip fractures
- Wrist fractures
- Spine fractures
- Renal failure
- Osteomyelitis
- Loosening of teeth
Due to the severity of these side effects, patients may contact a bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation of their potential bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawsuit.
Bisphosphonate Esophageal Cancer
On July 21, 2011, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) issued a press release acknowledging a potential link between oral bisphosphonate drugs and an increased risk of esophageal cancer. The announcement comes in the wake of numerous reports of esophagitis and esophageal events, particularly in individuals who do not follow specific directions when using bisphosphonate medications.
Bisphosphonate esophageal cancer is a malignancy of the esophagus. Accordingly, there are numerous variations in which the cancer can take the form of. Primary forms include squamous cell cancer (approx 90-95% of all esophageal cancer worldwide) and adenocarcinoma (approx. 50-80% of all esophageal cancer in the United States). Regardless of where the rest in the esophagus, esophageal tumors are characterized by severe pain and dysphagia. Though chemo and radiotherapy may render some tumors operable, the prognosis is typically very poor. Due to the severity of this complication, patients may contact a bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation of their potential bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawsuit.
Do I Have a Bisphosphonate Esophageal Cancer Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in bisphosphonate esophageal cancer lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by a bisphosphonate, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.