While the litigation over Fosamax continues to unfold, another clinical study has been released that suggests the osteoporosis drug may actually hinder bone growth and increase the possibility of fractures. The study, conducted by physicians at Weill Medical College of Cornell University and published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma, indicated that extended use of Fosamax and other bisphosphonates may increase the risk of femur fractures, News Inferno reported. The study also revealed that long-term use of Fosamax can suppress bone metabolism, which reportedly restricts the repair of microdamage and increases the chance of breaks.

The report examined 70 patients with femoral fractures who were admitted to their Level 1 trauma center between 2002 and 2007. The average age of the subjects was 75 years of age and most were female. Most of the patients who suffered from a similar fracture pattern were taking bisphosphonate alendronate, and those who exhibited femoral stress fractures had been on the medication for years longer than the other participants. Although the results are inconclusive, Lane and his associates have called for more research to determine if a direct link can be established between the bisphosphonates and the bone problems.

"Physicians prescribing bisphosphonates for longer durations should monitor patients for indications of bone regeneration," Lane said, according to News Inferno. The study is just the latest in a line of reports that is taking a hard look at Fosamax, which is currently at the center of a massive product liability battle. Earlier this year, another study suggested that microbial biofilms, a mix of bacteria and extracellular material, are to blame for a painful side effect associated with the osteoporosis drugs.

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