Fosamax is designed to treat osteoporosis by reducing the activity of the cells that cause bone loss and hopefully increasing bone density. However, a number of Fosamax users have developed a condition known as osteonecrosis of the jaw, commonly known as ONJ or “jaw death.” ONJ develops when the jaw fails to heal after a minor trauma, such as dental surgery, allowing infection to set in. As a result, the bones in the jaw die from infection and gradually waste away.

According to the Fosamax lawsuit, Merck was aware of the potential side effects of Fosamax, but continued to market the drug to the public and fail to issue proper warnings about its potential dangers. In addition, the plaintiffs allege that the company bribed doctors to continue prescribing Fosamax to their patients.

The seven patients’ Fosamax lawsuit charges Merck with negligence, fraud, conspiracy, bribery and other offenses. They are seeking damages for physical pain, lost wages, medical expense and other factors, plus punitive damages.