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Study finds new drug is more effective than Fosamax |
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Tuesday, 20 May 2008 |
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A study of a new experimental osteoporosis drug found that it was significantly more effective at increasing bone density than Fosamax. The new study could eventually spell trouble for Fosamax, whose side effects include a painful condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw.
In a one-year study of more than 500 patients, researchers found that those who were given the new drug (called denosumab) experienced an 80% increase in bone density at their hip than with Fosamax. Researcher said that patients also experienced significant gains in bone density at other areas of the body compared with Fosamax. The study also found no increased risk of side effects—including cancerous tumors or infections—than with Fosamax.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw, one of the potential side effects of Fosamax, can cause the decay of jawbone tissue, leading to exposed bone in the mouth and severe infections that can require the removal of the jaw. Because it can stay in the body for several years, patients may experience Fosamax side effects such as jaw osteonecrosis even after they have stopped taking the drug. |