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Does Evenity cause dental problems?

Medically reviewed by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD. Last updated on March 19, 2025.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Evenity (romosozumab) can rarely cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a serious condition where the jawbone loses its blood supply, leading to bone cell death and exposure of the jawbone.

ONJ is often associated with tooth extractions or slow-healing mouth infections. Certain medications may also increase the risk, including:

  • Chemotherapy medications
  • Bisphosphonates
  • Angiogenesis inhibitors
  • Corticosteroids

How to Lower Your Risk of ONJ

Before starting Evenity, it is recommended to have a dental exam to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. To minimize risk:

  • Maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.
  • Inform your doctor if you have a history of dental issues, infections, or dentures.
  • Discuss any upcoming dental procedures with your doctor to determine if treatment adjustments are needed.

Symptoms of Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Though rare, it is important to watch out for symptoms of ONJ. In some cases, it may occur after 12 months of taking Evenity.

Symptoms of ONJ may include:

  • Swelling in the mouth
  • Drainage in the mouth
  • Mouth pain
  • Exposed jawbone
  • Bad breath
  • Loose teeth

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Related questions

How Common is ONJ with Evenity?

The risk of developing ONJ from Evenity is estimated at 0.05%, making it a very rare side effect.

In clinical trials involving 5,376 patients, only three cases of ONJ were reported. Additional cases have been reported since the drug's approval and release.

This is not all the information you need to know about Evenity (romosozumab) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

American Dental Association. Updated April 11, 2023. Osteoporosis Medications and Medication-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw. Accessed July 18, 2024 at https://www.ada.org/en/resources/ada-library/oral-health-topics/osteoporosis-medications

Evenity [package insert]. (Updated April 12, 2024). Amgen Inc. Accessed July 18, 2024 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=471baba2-7154-4488-9891-0db2f46791e7

Kim, H. Y. (2021). Review and Update of the Risk Factors and Prevention of Antiresorptive-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw. In: Endocrinology and Metabolism. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3803%2FEnM.2021.1170

Monga, K. (2023). Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ). Accessed July 18, 2024 at https://rheumatology.org/patients/osteonecrosis-of-the-jaw-onj

Palla, B., et. al. (2023). Romosozumab-associated medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. In: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Cases. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.omsc.2023.100318

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