Actonel (generic: risedronate) is used in the regulation of bone formation and breakdown in a patients body. Unfortunately, people who use this medication may be unaware of the hazardous Actonel side effects that coincide with it. Patients who use Actonel may increase their risk of developing a debilitating complication like atypical femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
If you or a loved one has been injured by Actonel, 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.
What’s the problem?
Actonel is used in the treatment or prevention of osteoporosis and Paget’s disease in both men and women. Actonel belongs to a class of medications known as bisphosphonates which can slow down bone loss while increasing bone mass. As their name suggests, bisphosphonates are a combination of two different phosphate groups that work to restore bone mass.
Through the natural process of homeostasis, bone ultimately has a turnover rate that is kept in balance by osteoblasts generating new bone and osteoclasts destroying old bone. Those who have osteoporosis, experience diminished bone mass at a more rapid rate than it is generated. Actonel inhibits this breakdown of bone by preventing the osteoclasts from further destroying bone mass. Therefore, Actonel promotes the steady growth of bone mass.
Unfortunately, individuals who take Actonel, may be doing so without knowing that they may suffer from dangerous Actonel side effects. People who take this osteoporosis drug can develop catastrophic side effects of Actonel including osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), musculoskeletal pain and diminished bone dexterity that can lead to an increased rate of femur fractures. Due to the severity of these side effects, numerous Actonel lawsuits have been filed.
Side Effects of Actonel
Common side effects of Actonel include constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, stomach pain and nausea. Though these Actonel side effects are relatively mild, they may be indications of more severe complications. The following is a list of dangerous Actonel side effects:
- Low impact femur fractures
- Thigh bone fractures
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ)
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Atypical femur fractures
- Subtrochanteric femur fractures
- Femoral shaft fractures
- Thigh deformity
- Leg shortening
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ) is often referred to by many other names like Jaw Death, Dead Jaw disease, or Bisphossy Jaw. ONJ is a disfiguring and disabling condition in which jaw bones suffer from literal bone death through infection and rotting. ONJ develops when the jaw fails to heal after minor trauma such as a tooth extraction that results in bone exposure. ONJ has also been linked to the use of Actonel.
Bisphosphonate Osteoporosis Medications
- Aclasta
- Actonel
- Aredia
- Bondronat
- Boniva
- Didronel
- Fosamax
- Fosavance
- Reclast
- Skelid
- Zometa
JAMA Study Links Bisphosphonates to Unusual Bone Fractures
On February 22, 2011, The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), published an article titled “Long-Term Use of Bisphosphonates Increases Risk for Atypical Fractures”. This article describes the dangers associated with long term use of Bisphosphonates. Over time, the drug may increase the risk for atypical subtrochanteric or femoral shaft fractures in older patients. Furthermore, concerns have emerged that these drugs may inhibit bone restructuring, leading to unusual fractures.
Do I have an Actonel 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 Actonel lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Actonel, 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.