Zometa® Linked to Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

“Please note, Schmidt & Clark, LLP is no longer accepting Zometa claims. If you feel that you may have a potential case, we urge you to locate another law firm adequately suited to handle your claim.”

Osteonecrosis (pronounced OSS-tee-oh-ne-KRO-sis) of the jaw is an uncommon condition that involves the loss, or breakdown, of the jaw bone. It can be a serious condition. Symptoms include, but are not limited to:

• Pain, swelling, or infection of the gums
• Loosening of teeth
• Poor healing of the gums
• Numbness or the feeling of heaviness in the jaw

If you experience any of these or other dental symptoms, tell both your oncologist and your dentist immediately and follow your oncologist’s recommendations regarding continuation of your cancer treatment. Your oncologist may refer you to an oral surgeon or dental oncologist with experience in osteonecrosis.

To diagnose Osteonecrosis of the Jaw, doctors may use X rays or tests for infection (microbial cultures). Treatments for Osteonecrosis of the Jaw may include antibiotics, oral rinses, and removable mouth appliances. Minor dental work may be necessary to remove injured tissue and reduce sharp edges of the bone. Surgery is typically avoided because it may make the condition worse.

There have been over 2,400 Fosamax (same class of drugs as Zometa) patients since 2001 that have reported bone death and jaw bone decay or Osteonecrosis of the Jaw.

In addition, more than 120 patients have suffered from such severe pain and debilitation that they have become bedridden or in need of devices like crutches, walkers and wheelchairs.

Signs and Symptoms of Zometa Induced Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

The typical signs and symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw may include pain, swelling or infection of the gums, loosening of the teeth, poor healing of the gums, numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw, drainage and exposed bone. Patients with the least serious form of this condition may not show any symptoms, but in the most serious cases, some patients may require the removal of sections of the jaw.

Do I have an Zometa Lawsuit?

The Defective Drug Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus exclusively on the representation of plaintiffs in Zometa lawsuits. We are handling individual and group litigation nationwide and currently accepting new cases in your area.

If you or a loved one have taken Zometa and developed a serious side effect like ONJ, you should contact us immediately. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help.