Reclast and other bisphosphonates used for the treatment of osteoporosis have been linked to severe side effects in patients. Reclast has been linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), musculoskeletal pain, atypical femur fractures, hip fractures, and renal failure (kidney failure).
Reclast (zoledronic acid) is a bisphosphonate (BP) drug indicated for the prevention of skeletal fractures in patients with cancers and the treatment of osteoporosis. Reclast and other BPs including Fosamax, Boniva, and Actonel are widely prescribed to post-menopausal women for the prevention of bone loss associated with osteoporosis. The FDA is now investigating whether these bisphosphonates may actually increase the risks of fractures in women who have taken Reclast long-term, or over 5 years.
Reports of kidney failure linked to Reclast
The FDA received reports of 24 cases of renal impairment and cases of severe renal failure (kidney failure) in some persons taking Reclast from April 2007 to February 2009, including seven deaths. As a result the FDA is encouraging physicians to closely monitor patients receiving their annual Reclast treatments. And, the maker of Reclast updated the Warnings and Precautions sections of Reclast labels to include information about acute renal failure.
The makers of Reclast market the drug (zoledronic acid) under the name Aclasta in Canada. In October 2010, the Aclasta (Reclast) manufacturer sent a Dear Doctor letter to physicians in Canada about the possible kidney risks associated with zoledronic acid (Aclasta / Reclast). The notice warns that Aclasta (Reclast):
“[Reclast] has been associated with kidney dysfunction manifested as worsening of kidney function, and in rare cases, acute kidney failure. Kidney impairment has been observed following the administration of ACLASTA* [Reclast], occasionally after a single administration.”
The drug manufacturer is revising the label to further emphasize the risks associates with Aclasta / Reclast and kidney damage.
Reclast linked to bone fractures and skeletal problems
Long term usage of bisphosphonates including Reclast have been linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), atypical femur fractures, low impact femur fractures, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), thigh deformity, and leg shortening.
Reclast treatments are intended to increase bone strength, however studies show that nitrogenous bisphosphonates like Reclast are linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Medical journals have even given the complication its own abbreviation BONJ (bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw). BONJ is a serious side effect associated with Reclast that causes tooth loss, pain, and disfigurement.
The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published an article in February 20011 describing the risks of long term use of bisphosphonates like Reclast. The JAMA article found that long term use of Reclast and other bisphosphonates increases the risks for atypical femoral shaft fractures in older patients.
Are you suffering from Reclast Side effects?
If you or someone you love has suffered Reclast side effects including atypical femur fractures, osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), musculoskeletal pain, femoral shaft fractures, leg deformation, or kidney damage, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact An Attorney for You to be connected to a Reclast Lawsuit Attorney to learn about your rights to financial compensations for your pain, suffering, and medical expenses. For a Free Consultation about your Reclast Lawsuit Case, simply call 800-507-6230 or fill out the Free Case Review form on this page to speak to a Reclast Attorney.