Zometa (generic: zoledronic acid) is a prescription medication used to assist in the treatment of Paget’s disease and osteoporosis, complications in which bone mass density is severely diminished. Unfortunately, patients who use Zometa may drastically increase their risk of developing osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) or suffering from atypical femur fractures.
If you or a loved one has been injured by Zometa, 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?
Zoledronic acid, the active ingredient in Zometa, is used to treat osteoporosis and Paget’s disease. Zoledronic acid belongs to a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates. As their name suggest, bisphosphonates consist of two phosphate groups that help to combat the degeneration of bone.
Bones ultimately have a turnover rate which is kept in balance by osteoblasts creating new bone and osteoclasts destroying old bone. Those who suffer from osteoporosis or Paget’s disease, experience a degenerating bone mass at a more rapid rate than it is created. Zometa prohibits the breakdown of bone by preventing the osteoclasts from further destroying bone mass. Accordingly, Zometa is intended to promote and maintain a healthy bone regeneration rate
Unfortunately, bisphosphonates have become associated with serious and crippling conditions. Zometa patients may experience osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), musculoskeletal pain and diminished bone dexterity that can lead to an increased rate of atypical femur fractures. Due to the severity of these side effects, our Zometa lawyers are ready to help represent plaintiffs in their potential Zometa lawsuit.
Side Effects of Zometa
The following side effects are being evaluated for potential Zometa lawsuits:
- Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ)
- Atypical femur fractures
- Osteomyelitis
- Pain
- Swelling or infection of the gums
- Loosening of the teeth
- Poor healing of the gums
- Numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw
- Drainage
- Exposed bone
- Hip Fractures
- Renal failure
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 Zometa.
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 Zometa 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 Zometa lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been injured by Zometa, 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.