Fosamax Study

May 1, 2008- You may have seen the recent media coverage regarding an observational study published in the April 28, 2008 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine raising the possibility of an association between the medication Fosamax and an abnormal rhythm of the heart called atrial fibrillation. This study reported a small increase in the likelihood of atrial fibrillation in patients who had ever taken Fosamax, which is typically prescribed for osteoporosis. The study findings should be considered individually on a case-by-case basis for each patient and thus it is recommended that you discuss any concerns with your physician prior to making any changes to your Fosamax regimen. 

Of note, the FDA recently released a large review of spontaneous post-marketing reports of atrial fibrillation associated with bisphosphonates and did not identify an increased risk of atrial fibrillation.  An expert panel of reviewers has stated that, in general, the benefits of bisphosphonate treatment in patients with osteoporosis outweigh the small potential risk of atrial fibrillation.

If you have more specific questions for your physician, please call their office directly.