|  | Conditions Treatments | Osteoporosis

Biophosphinates Side Effects

Bisphosphonates are medications prescribed to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Drugs such as alendronate (Fosamax), ibandronate (Boniva) and risedronate (Actonel) are effective at decreasing bone resorption and at preventing fractures in people with osteoporosis. Side effects are uncommon, but some are serious.

  1. Uses

    • Bisphosphonates are beneficial for postmenopausal women with low hipbone density or spinal compression fractures, elderly men with non-traumatic fractures, and patients with Paget's disease or cancer that has spread to bone.

    Drug Administration

    • Bisphosphonates should be taken on an empty stomach, because food decreases absorption. These medications can cause damage to the esophagus if they stick in the throat, so take the drug with plenty of water and do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after swallowing it.

    Common Side Effects

    • Common side effects of bisphosphonates include bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, dizziness and headache. These effects usually are temporary.

    Drug Interactions

    • Gastrointestinal side effects can increase if you take bisphosphonates at the same time as aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

    Risks

    • Rarely, people taking bisphosphonates have developed osteonecrosis of the jawbone. This severe disorder causes destruction of bone tissue.

Osteoporosis - Related Articles