Tips To Reduce Fosamax Backlash
by on Dec.12, 2011, under Uncategorized
Bisphosphonates are ordered in as many as 30 million prescriptions annually in the United States. One contributing factor is a bisphosphonate that can relieve pain due to bone metastases of prostate cancer, however, a more significant contributor is Fosamax, which is also a bisphosphonate, that is used to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Because of the big population that depends on Fosamax, spreading awareness on how to reduce the occurrence of unwanted Fosamax side effects is very important.
As disclosed by Merck & Co., the company which patented Fosamax, the said drug may yield these severe side effects:
- Esophageal problems
- Hypocalcemia or having serum calcium levels below normal
- Extreme pain on the bones, joints or muscles
- Necrosis (death) of the jaw bone
- Low-impact thigh bone fracture
In order to diminish the risk of dealing with these unfavorable effects it is advisable to remember these notes when you are in Fosamax therapy.
- Do not take a dose higher than what your physician has instructed
- Drug works on an empty stomach do not take anything prior to this drug
- Always remember to take the drug in an upright position and with a full glass of tap water only, do not chew or suck oral forms of Fosamax
- Within the next 30 minutes, do not switch into a reclining position and do not take any food, medication or drink (except plain water)
Furthermore, it is recommended to hold your next dose and immediately inform your health care practitioner once you develop chest pain, new or worsening heartburn, or difficulty or pain upon swallowing. This may indicate damage on your esophagus – the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach – which may include irritation, inflammation or ulcerations with possible bleeding.
Likewise, hypocalcemia needs to be referred to your doctor which may include symptoms such as spasms, twitches, or cramps in the muscles, or numbness or tingling sensation in your fingers, toes or around your mouth. In most events, your health care practitioner will include calcium and vitamin D supplements in your therapy, nonetheless, such drugs need prescriptions too.
In rare occasions, people sustain an atypical type of thigh bone fracture after prolonged use. It is therefore imperative for you to discuss to your doctor the duration of the therapy and your risk for that repercussion. Moreover, these reports consequently resulted into a number of Fosamax lawsuits against the manufacturer of the drug. Although undoubtedly beneficial, taking Fosamax requires precautions and responsibilities that every patronizer needs to be aware of.
References:
http://www.bjmp.org/content/oral-bisphosphonates-and-risk-osteonecrosis-jaw
http://www.merck.com/product/usa/pi_circulars/f/fosamax/fosamax_mg.pdf
