Osteoporosis drugs spark bone cancer concerns
Concerns have been raised and debated – on ABC’s 7.30 TV Report and in the media – over a widely used series of bone cancer drugs which can also cause a debilitating side-effect known as ‘dead jaw’.
An estimated 500 Australians have developed the condition named osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) over the past four years, linked to their prescribed use of bisphosphonate drugs which help to treat osteoporosis. A class action has been launched by ONJ sufferers in the United States where there are questions over whether drug makers have published adequate warnings over side-effect risks.
The bisphosphonate type of drugs include the brands Fosamax and Actonel which were listed on Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, dramatically reducing their cost to users, late last year. The side-effect, which appears to be exacerbated by tooth decay or loss and gum infection, can cause shards of jaw bone to break off and migrate painfully through the gums. It causes difficulty in eating, in worst cases, the jaw bone can dissolve until it breaks.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has said it will now require bisphosphonate drug makers in Australia to issue clearer warnings over the risk of ONJ.
The National Prescribing Service Limited is advising consumers concerned about the possible jaw disease associated with osteoporosis medicines to talk to their doctor to assess whether they are at risk.
