The issue of Fosamax and its reported adverse effects is no longer a new discourse and the progress has been slow and steady. For the record, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Advisory Committee will have a meeting regarding Fosamax. The bone-strengthening drug seems to have a double-edged effect and now it is taking its toll on its patients.
Fosamax belongs to the family of biphosphonates which is commonly given to treat osteoporosis and other bone problems. Otherwise known by its generic version alendronate sodium, this drug works by preventing bone breakdown in the bone cycle increasing bone density.
This drug is known to cause several side effects especially on the upper gastrointestinal tract. However, more bad news is coming for this drug as now, it is believed to be associated with certain types of cancers.
The reports began around January 2009 when FDA revealed to the New England Journal of medicine that it had 23 cases of esophageal cancers in the United States and 21 more in Europe and Japan where the primary cause is believed to be Fosamax. The esophagus is the tube that carries food, liquids and saliva from your mouth to the stomach.
At an early stage, an esophageal cancer is asymptomatic meaning it has no symptoms at all. As the cancer develops, symptoms may include odynophagia (painful swallowing) or dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), weight loss and hemoptysis (coughing up blood). Smoking, excessive drinking, and damage due to acid reflux are thought to be the risk factors of the disease.
Fosamax is already known to cause inflammation and ulcers in the esophagus. Hence, it needs to be taken with a full glass of plain water and at least 30 minutes before your first food. Moreover, you need to keep standing or sit upright within for at least half an hour after taking the drug.
Based on latest clinical studies, Fosamax and other bone-building medications, can add to the possibility of throat cancer. Past researches suggest no disparity however on the latest finding, the susceptibility to the disease is somewhat doubled. Nevertheless, we need to keep in mind as well that the actual numbers are still minimal, incidence is 2 in every 1000 people while the normal risk is 1 in every 1000 people.
Fosamax side effects are ineveitable during the course of your Fosamax therapy. Also, you need to confer with your physician regarding your concerns about your medical condition and your therapy.
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