Back

Boning Up on Bisphosphonates

There's a new drug treatment to lower the chances of bone fractures from bone disease. These are called bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates can be used to keep bone cells from being absorbed or destroyed. This is good news for patients with low bone density from osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, cancer, or other bone disease.

There are several different types of bisphosphonates on the market. You may have heard of names that end with the suffix "–ate." The most commonly known bisphosphonate is probably Fosamax, known to the pharmacist and doctor as alendronate. Others include Actonel (risedronate), Aredia (pamidronate), and Zometa (zolendronate).

Patients taking these drugs must follow the directions carefully. They shouldn't be taken with antacids that have aluminum or magnesium. Bottled water with minerals should be avoided. This decreases the body's ability to absorb and use bisphosphonates. Calcium supplements have the same effect.

Food should be avoided for two hours before taking these drugs. There may be some side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Less common side effects include taste disorders, joint pain, liver problems, and hallucinations. Patients are advised to report any problems to the physician. Changes in drug or dosage can help.

There may be a way to prevent intestinal problems. Patients are told to stay in an upright or seated position for at least 30 minutes after taking bisphosphonates. The newer drugs only have to be taken once a week. This makes it easier for patients to follow these guidelines.

References: Julie T. Lin, MD, and Joseph M. Lane, MD. Bisphosphonates. In Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. January/February 2003. Vol. 11. No. 1. Pp. 1-4.

Back