Osteonecrosis of the jaw has been linked to which class of medications?

• A. Bisphosphonates
• B. Antibiotics
• C. Antidepressants
• D. Analgesics

Answer: (A)

Osteonecrosis of the jaw occurs when jawbone tissue dies due to a reduced blood supply and impaired healing. The most established drug-related risk comes from bisphosphonates, a class used to treat osteoporosis and to protect bones in cancer patients. These drugs inhibit osteoclasts and slow bone turnover, which can hinder remodeling and healing in the jaw after dental procedures or trauma. The effect is particularly evident with long-term use and with intravenous forms, though it can occur with oral forms as well, especially in the presence of additional risk factors like poor oral health or concurrent therapies. Other drug classes listed—antibiotics, antidepressants, and analgesics—do not have a well-recognized, direct link to osteonecrosis of the jaw.