Zometa and Fosamax Associated to Atrial Fibrillation

A study conducted by the researchers from the University of Miami says that the use of osteoporosis drugs Zometa and Fosamax can increase the risk of potentially severe irregular heart beats called ‘atrial fibrillation’.

Fosamax (Alendronate) and Zometa (Zoledronic acid) are part of a class of drugs known as bisphosphonates. They are extensively used to minimize the risk of bone fractures associated with osteoporosis.

The study presented this week at the 74th annual conference of the American College of Chest Physicians analyzed data involving over 16,000 individuals who were given Zometa, Fosamax or a placebo.

The researchers say that overall risk of irregular heart beats was small, but those taking Zometa or Fosamax may possibly face a 68% increase in the risk of serious cases of atrial fibrillation resulting in hospitalization or even death.

Atrial fibrillation is a cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) that can cause a blood clot to form in the heart which can shear off and travel to the brain. This disorder found in about 2.2 million Americans. Symptoms of atrial fibrillation are light-headedness, palpitations, chest pain and shortness of breath. 

The study states that 2.5% to 3% of those taking Zometa or Fosamax experienced atrial fibrillation and 1% to 2% experienced severe complications due to the heart problems, including hospitalization or death.