Aredia (generic: pamidronate disodium) is a bone-resorption inhibitor used in the treatment of hypercalcemia associated with malignancy, with or without bone metastases. Unfortunately, patients who take Aredia may develop debilitating complications like atypical femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
If you or a loved one has been injured by Aredia, you should contact our lawyersimmediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
What’s the problem?
Aredia is used to treat high levels of calcium in the blood that may be caused by certain types of cancer, it also helps in the treatment of Paget’s disease and the loss of bone mass. Aredia is in a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by slowing bone breakdown, increasing bone density and decreasing the amount of calcium released from the bones into the blood.
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. Aredia inhibits this breakdown of bone by preventing the osteoclasts from further destroying bone mass. Therefore, Aredia promotes the steady growth of bone mass.
Unfortunately, individuals who take Aredia, may be doing so without knowing that they may suffer from dangerous Aredia side effects. People who take this medication may develop catastrophic side effects of Aredia 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 Aredia lawsuits have been filed.
Side Effects of Aredia
Common side effects of Aredia include constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, stomach pain and nausea. Though these Aredia side effects are relatively mild, they may be indications of more severe complications. The following is a list of dangerous Aredia 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 Aredia.
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 Aredia 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 Aredia lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Aredia, 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.