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The Disadvantages of Taking Boniva or Fosamax

Fosamax and Boniva are two of several FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of osteoporosis, a disease that causes loss of bone density over time. These drugs, which are classified as bisphosphonates, are the mainstay for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis. Fosamax is an oral medication taken weekly and was the first osteoporosis drug approved by the FDA. Boniva can be taken orally on a monthly basis, or in intravenous (IV) form every three months.

  1. Inconvenience

    • Fosamax and Boniva in the oral form have to be taken first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. It is also recommended that the drugs be taken in a sitting or standing position and that you wait 30 minutes after Fosamax and an hour after Boniva before you eat, drink or take any other medications. The pills should only be taken with water, as acidic juices or coffee can greatly irritate the stomach. Boniva in the intravenous form may be considered even more of an inconvenience to those who find it difficult to schedule a time to receive an injection or have a fear of needles.

    Adverse Reactions

    • Possible side effects of bisphosphonate drugs include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, gas and constipation. Other complaints related to adverse drug and food interaction include heart burn, indigestion and acid regurgitation. Following directions strictly and adhering to the advised protocol can possibly reduce these negative effects. Symptoms usually subside when the patient quits taking the drug.

    Severe Musculoskeletal Pain

    • In 2008, The FDA released a health alert highlighting the possibility of bone, joint, and or muscle pain in patients taking bisphosphonates, which includes Fosamax and Boniva. The severe musculoskeletal pain may occur within days, months or even years after beginning the drug. Some patients have reported complete relief of symptoms upon discontinuing the drug, while others slowly recovered or received no resolution of painful side effects.

    Acute Response

    • After receiving the intravenous dose of Boniva, some patients have experienced what is referred to as "acute phase response." This severe reaction is characterized by fever, chills and bone pain. This response has also occurred after oral dosage as well. This response tends to naturally resolve as the body adapts with continued use of the drug. As with all serious side effects, the immediately report any adverse reactions to your physician.

    Long-Term Effects

    • Doctor and researchers are still learning about the exact effects of bisphosphonates on the body. The increase in bone mass has been shown to improve in the first 12 months of use. However, the natural bone repair process is halted by these drugs, which over the long haul may prove to be counterproductive. If you are a candidate for the drug, you need to weigh the purported benefits against the potential risks and discuss alternative choices with your physician.

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