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In the summer of 1995, the FDA approved a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates, the most familiar of which is sold under the brand name Fosamax. Fosamax was hailed as a miracle drug that would work against the degeneration of bone density mass.
Read More: Fosamax May Not Be the Best Way to Treat Osteoporosis
Bisphosphonates include a group of medications that act by destroying the osteoclasts. Side effects can include gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers and abdominal pain. In addition there is a rare occurrence of jaw bone death. Discontinuation of this medication can result in increased bone turnover and a decrease in bone density. (Read More About SIde Effects of Bisphosphonates)
Bisphosphonates, a class of drugs commonly used for osteoporosis, have recently included a new addition to their list of side effects, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) or jawbone death. The Pennsylvania Dental Association (PDA) would like to inform the public about this rare but very serious side effect of bisphosphonates. Some drugs within this class include Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva, taken orally. Other drugs include Aredia, Bonefos, Didronel, or Zometa which are administered intravenously. Over a thousand cases of ONJ have been reported in patients undergoing bisphosphonates treatments. Source: Red Orbit