Ortho Evra Fosamax & ONJ

Fosamax and Ortho Evra - Risks and Side Effects

Fosamax and Jaw death ( ONJ )

What is ONJ?

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw ( ONJ ) also sometimes referred to as jaw death, bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis (BON) or osteochemonecrosis is a condition in which the bones that form the jaw begin to die. In most cases, the soft tissue that surrounds the teeth and covers the bones of the jaw recedes, and jaw bone becomes exposed. The jaw bone is then very susceptible to infection, especially after any trauma such as having teeth pulled, and the bone begins to die away. In serious cases, pieces of dead (necrotized) bone must often be removed, teeth may become loose or fall out, and sores can develop in the gums near the exposed bone. In the most severe cases, the jaw bone substantially disintegrates, leading to increased risk of jaw fractures and significant loss of bone.

What are the symptoms of ONJ?

The most distinctive symptom of ONJ is exposed bone in the mouth.  Early signs of ONJ also include pain or swelling in the jaw, gum infections and sores that do not heal normally, a sensation of heaviness or numbness or other unusual feelings in the jaw, drainage or discharge from the jaw, and loosening of teeth. Because the early symptoms of ONJ resemble the symptoms of other dental problems, it is important to consult with a dentist in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

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FDA Announcement and Ortho Evra

Ortho Evra skin patch was the first skin patch approved for birth control. On November 10, 2005, the FDA announced a change to the labeling of the Ortho Evra contraceptive patch. The patch is manufactured by Johnson and Johnsons Ortho McNeil. The Ortho Evra patch is a weekly prescription patch that releases ethinyl estradiol (an estrogen hormone) and norelgestromin (a progestin hormone). The Ortho Evra contraceptive patch contains higher levels of a hormone known to cause blood clots than the average birth control pills. Women who use Ortho Evra are subject to 60% more estrogen than those using the birth control pill.
According to FDA reports, a dozen women died last year from blood clots believed to be related to the Ortho Evra patch. The reports also linked the birth control patch to dozens of other non-fatal strokes and blood clots. The FDA said it has received 21 reports of life-threatening blood clots and other ailments associated with Ortho Evra use.

Approximately 4 million women have uqed the Ortho Evra patch since iv went on sale in 2002. FDA records show that seventeen (17) users of the Ortho Evra patch between the ages of 17 and 30 have suffered fatal heart attacks, blood clots, and possible strokes since August, 2002. Ortho-McNeil, the manufacturer of the birth control patch, has aggressively marketed the patch as a convenient alternative to oral birth control pills.

If you or a loved one has experienced a heart attack, stroke, or serious clot while using the Ortho Evra patch, you may want to consider your potential legal claim for this loss. If you would like the experienced personal injury attorneys at Bailey & Galyen to evaluate your claim, Contact us at 1-800-529-8008. Our experienced staff will assist you with your claim.