| Drug Class |
Bisphosphonate |
| Mechanism |
- Inhibits osteoclast bone reabsorption
- For optimal activity, enough vitamin D and calcium are needed
|
| Typical Dose |
10mg OD or 70mg once weekly |
| Indications |
- Osteoporosis
- Paget’s disease
|
| Contra-indications |
- Abnormalities of the oesophagus (eg structure)
- Hypocalcaemia
- Other factors which delay emptying
|
| Side-effects |
- GI disorders
- Joint swelling
- Vertigo
- Osteonecrosis of the (risk factors, malignancy and dental disease)
|
| Interactions |
Antacids: decrease absorption of alendronate |
| Elimination |
|
| Additional Notes |
|
ALPHA