Boniva (generic: ibandronate) plays a vital role in altering the cycle of bone formation and breakdown in patients diagnosed with osteoporosis. However, the use of Boniva may increase the risk of patients developing debilitating complications like low energy femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ).
If you or a loved one has been injured by Boniva, 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?
Boniva is used in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women. Its ability to inhibit the release of calcium from bones is attributed to its classification as a bisphosphonate. Ibandronate, the active ingredient in Boniva, is in a class of medications called bisphosphonates. It works by preventing bone breakdown and increasing bone density (thickness).
Through homeostasis, bone naturally undergoes turnover and is kept in balance by osteoblasts generating new bone and osteoclasts destroying old bone. In patients with osteoporosis, bone dexterity is diminished at a more rapid rate than it is generated. As a bisphosphonate, Boniva inhibits the breakdown of bone by preventing the osteoclasts from destroying the bone any further. As a result, Boniva promotes steady bone growth.
Unfortunately, patients who use Boniva, may be subjected to severe Boniva side effects. Patients who take the osteoporosis drug can develop dangerous side effects of Boniva including osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), musculoskeletal pain and diminished bone dexterity that can lead to an increased rate of femur fractures. Due to these severe side effects, numerous Boniva lawsuits have been filed.
Side Effects of Boniva
Boniva has been associated with the development of numerous side effects. Some of which include:
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramping
- Ulceration of the esophagus
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ)
- Femur fractures
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 Boniva.
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 a Boniva 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 Boniva lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Boniva, 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.