Merck & Co wins Fosamax federal bellwether trial over atypical femur fracture claims

A US has jury found in favor of pharma giant Merck & Co (NYSE: MRK) in the Glynn versus Merck case in the US District Court for the District of New Jersey. In the case, the plaintiff claimed she used the company’s osteoporosis drug Fosamax (alendronate sodium) and subsequently suffered an atypical femur fracture.

“We are pleased with the jury’s verdict. The company provided appropriate and timely information about Fosamax to consumers and the medical, scientific and regulatory communities,” said Bruce Kuhlik, executive vice president and general counsel of Merck, adding: “We remain confident in the efficacy and safety profile of Fosamax, and will continue to always act in the best interest of patients.”

At trial, Merck presented evidence that Fosamax did not cause the plaintiff’s fracture, and that the company acted responsibly in researching and developing the drug and in monitoring the medicine since it has been on the market. The company’s clinical trials, conducted both before and following approval, have involved more than 28,000 patients, including more than 17,000 treated with Fosamax.