New Research Links Fosamax with Esophageal Cancer

(New York, NY, July 17, 2012) The Rottenstein Law Group, which represents clients with claims stemming from the severe side effects of the osteoporosis drug Fosamax, has learned that researchers have found a link between the drug and cancer of the esophagus.
A study recently presented to the 2012 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting concludes that the drug alendronate (brand name Fosamax) is likely linked to cancer of the esophagus. In 2009, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported on 23 patients who had developed distal esophageal cancer, with alendronate…within 2 years of initiation of therapy. Similarly, 31 cases of esophageal cancer were reported from Europe and Japan. Esophagitis has been associated with oral [bisphosphonates]. Erosive esophagitis and persistent mucosal abnormalities have been noted with crystalline material (similar to ground [alendronate]), the study's abstract states.

The researchers consulted the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database using terms related to esophageal cancer combined with all drug names for bisphosphonates in instances from 1996 to 2010. The esophageal cancer cases were more common with bisphosphonates than with other drugs in the database. The researchers' analysis of FDA data identified a larger number of cases of esophageal cancer than previously described, and a significant number associated with alendronate use.

Despite being the most popular osteoporosis treatment on the market, Fosamax has been linked to several serious side effects. In 2004, researchers found a causal connection between Fosamax and osteonecrosis of the jaw, a condition that causes the jawbone to literally die because of a lack of blood supply. More recently, there has been a link between Fosamax and low-impact femur fractures experienced from standing height or less. Evidence is mounting that Fosamax and other bisphosphonate drugs prescribed to treat osteoporosis cause a dramatic increase in the risk of this kind of rare fracture to the thigh bone.

The Rottenstein Law Group advises anyone with a friend or family member who has been prescribed Fosamax or another osteoporosis drug to recommend to that person that he or she consult a physician immediately, then speak to a qualified Fosamax lawyer. The Rottenstein Law Group lawyers have a total of more than 25 years of experience fighting for the rights of clients who have suffered harm due to the negligence of powerful corporations. Affected individuals are advised to keep apprised of the latest news concerning the Fosamax femur fracture lawsuits by checking the Fosamax Femur Fracture Lawsuit Information Center at www.rotlaw.com/fosamax/ for updated information. The site is equipped with easy-to-use social media features which will enable users to spread the word about the dangers of Fosamax.

About the Rottenstein Law Group
The Rottenstein Law Group is a New York-based law firm that represents clients in mass tort actions. The firm was founded by Rochelle Rottenstein, a lawyer with over two decades of experience in compassionate representation of clients in consumer product injury, mass tort, and class action law suits. For more information, please visit its Web site at www.rotlaw.com, or call (888) 9-ROT-LAW. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.