Does Evenity cause dental problems?
Evenity (romosozumab) can rarely cause osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a serious side effect. This condition occurs when there is loss of blood supply to the jaw. As a result, the jawbone is exposed and bone cells die.
According to the manufacturer of Evenity, ONJ is generally associated with removal of teeth and/or an infection in the mouth that is healing slowly. Taking other medications that are associated with ONJ may increase your risk. These include:
- Chemotherapy medications
- Bisphosphonates
- Angiogenesis inhibitors
- Corticosteroids
Before taking Evenity, it is recommended to have an oral exam to make sure your teeth and gums look healthy. During treatment, be sure to practice good oral hygiene. Tell your doctor if you have a history of dental problems or infections, or if you wear dentures. Also let them know if you need to have any dental procedures done, so they can determine if it is safe for you to continue treatment with Evenity.
What are symptoms of osteonecrosis of the jaw?
Although ONJ is rare, it is important to watch out for symptoms. In some cases, ONJ occurred 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
Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of the symptoms listed above.
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How common is ONJ from taking Evenity?
It is estimated that the risk of ONJ from taking Evenity is around 0.05%. It is a very rare side effect, so the risk of developing it is low.
In clinical trials that included 5,376 patients, only 3 cases of ONJ were reported. Since the medication was approved and came on the market, there have been additional reports of ONJ.
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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Drug information
- Evenity Information for Consumers
- Evenity prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Evenity (detailed)
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