3-D Printer Makes Bone-Like Material that Could Potentially Treat Osteoporosis

Many people are searching for alternatives to bisphosphonates like Fosamax to treat their osteoporosis, since the drug, manufactured by Merck, is thought to cause atypical femur fractures and jawbone death in patients who take it for extended periods of time. Many of those who have experienced these side effects from taking the drug are suing Merck.

One possible future alternative to Fosamax could be a bone-like material created with the use of a 3-D inkjet printer that has the potential to be used in orthopedic and dental procedures, as well as provide new ways to treat and prevent osteoporosis.

New Material Acts Like Bone, Feels Like Bone

Researchers at Washington State University have created a material comprised of silicon and zinc, topped with a plastic binder sprayed over the compound via an inkjet that is part of a commercially available 3-D printer. According to the researchers from WSU’s School of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, their creation, a channeled cylinder the size of a pencil eraser, will be capable of providing a “scaffold” for weak bones, that will help strengthen them by providing the needed support to encourage new, healthy bone cells to grow and develop. Successful in vitro testing on mice and rabbits has shown promising results, with the man-made material eventually dissolving harmlessly as new bone tissue develops. The ultimate goal is to give doctors the ability to custom-0rder replacement bone tissue and to help develop new medications to treat osteoporosis. Lead researcher Susmita Bose, a professor at WSU said, “If a doctor has a CT scan of a defect, we can covert it to a CAD [computer aided design] file and make the scaffold according to the defect.” The findings have been published in the journal Dental Materials.

The project has been an interdisciplinary effort between the school’s chemistry, materials science, biology and manufacturing departments, and those involved are hopeful they will be able to provide a new and exciting solution to strengthening existing bone tissue and encouraging new bone growth in humans.

Consult a Physician to Determine if Taking Fosamax is Right For You

Osteoporosis sufferers are exploring many options when it comes to keeping bones healthy and strong. Many experts recommend certain foods be included in the diet in order for those at risk to receive the necessary nutrients vital to bone health. Exercise, particularly strength training, is essential for keeping bones strong at every stage of life. A medication like Fosamax might be necessary if diet and exercise are not enough to help prevent osteoporosis. Only a qualified physician is capable of helping you decide whether medication is right for you.

RLG Represents Injured Fosamax Users

If you have been taking Fosamax for an extended period of time, and have suffered a femur fracture, it could be because of the medication, and you may be eligible for compensation by a femur fracture lawsuit against Merck. The lawyers at the Rottenstein Law Group can help. Our Fosamax lawyers have over 25 years of collective experience advocating for clients in consumer product injury and mass tort cases. Please fill out our contact form or call us at 1-877-332-2347, and one of our lawyers will be in touch.

For more information on whether you have grounds to file a Fosamax lawsuit, download our free brochure.