For more detailed information on the actions, administration and possible side effects for each of the following medications, please consult the Package Insert, available on-line and at pharmacies.
The information provided here regarding particular medications is intended solely for general information and should NOT be relied upon for any particular diagnosis, treatment, or care. Inclusion in this list does not imply an endorsement by NOF or by Dr Stone of any particular medication or manufacturer.
For more detailed information on the actions, administration and possible side effects for each of the following medications, please consult the Package Insert, available on-line and at pharmacies.
Bisphosphonates
Alendronate Sodium (brand name Fosamax®)
Alendronate Sodium Plus 2,800 IU Vitamin D3 (brand name Fosamax® or Fosamax Plus D®)
Alendronate is approved for both the prevention (5 mg per day or 35 mg once a week) and treatment (10 mg per day or 70 mg once a week or 70 mg once a week plus D) of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Alendronate reduces bone loss, increases bone density and reduces the risk of spine, wrist and hip fractures.
Alendronate also is approved for treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in men and women as a result of long-term use of these medications (i.e., prednisone and cortisone) and for the treatment of osteoporosis in men.
Ibandronate Sodium (brand name Boniva®)
Ibandronate is approved for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Taken as a once-a-month pill (150 mg), ibandronate should be taken on the same day each month. Ibandronate reduces bone loss, increases bone density and reduces the risk of spine fractures.
Risedronate Sodium (brand name Actonel®)
Risedronate Sodium with 500 mg of Calcium Carbonate (brand name Actonel® or Actonel® with Calcium)
Risedronate is approved for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Taken daily (5 mg dose) or weekly (35 mg dose or 35 mg dose with calcium), risedronate slows bone loss, increases bone density and reduces the risk of spine and non-spine fractures.
Risedronate also is approved for use by men and women to prevent and/or treat glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis that results from long-term use of these medications (i.e., prednisone or cortisone).
Administration and Side Effects of Bisphosphonates
Side effects for alendronate, ibandronate and risedronate are uncommon but may include gastrointestinal problems, abdominal or musculoskeletal pain, nausea, heartburn, or irritation of the esophagus. There have been a few reports of osteonecrosis of the jaw and of visual disturbances, which should be reported to the healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Alendronate and risedronate must be taken on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning, with eight ounces of water (no other liquid), at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking. Patients must remain upright during this 30-minute period. Ibandronate must be taken on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning, with eight ounces of water (no other liquid) at least 60 minutes before eating or drinking. Patients must remain upright for at least one hour after taking this medication.
The information on this page was obtained from the National Osteoporosis Foundation website www.nof.org.
