Watch CVN's live webcast of the first state-court Fosamax trial, which begins next week in Atlantic City, New Jersey, before Hon. Judge Carol Higbee.
Alendronate Sodium, sold by Merck under the brand name "FOSAMAX" since 1995, is an osteoporosis treatment for postmenopausal women. Some studies have shown that oral bisphosphonates, including Fosamax, may increase the result of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), or bone death. A generic version of alendronate is manufactured by Teva.
The Mayo Clinic's website advises that aledronate is safe for patients who do not have cancer or active dental disease, such as a recent tooth extraction.
Plaintiff Alison Rosenberg claims that her jaw problems resulted from the use of Fosamax, and Merck's failure to timely warn of the risks. Merck claims that the harm to Ms. Rosenberg's jaw was caused by other health problems and medications.
Rosenberg v. Merck will be the fourth FOSAMAX trial, and the first in state court. The prior three trials, in federal court, resulted in two defense verdicts and a plaintiff verdict.
