Page 17 - Seniors Today June2020

Bisphosphonates
Taking bisphosphonates can assist men
and women at high risk of fracture, with a
history of low trauma fracture and who have
other risk factors for osteoporosis.
There are several kinds of bisphosphonates:
Tablets (weekly or monthly)
Alendronate
Risedronate
Intravenous infusion (once yearly) Drinking more than three caffeinated drinks per day can
Zoledronic acid reduce calcium absorption

How they work These medications are taken up by the skeleton and reduce the
rate of bone loss
Bisphosphonates reduce the risk of spinal and hip or other
fractures
These drugs usually become effective within 6-12 months

Possible side effects/risks They are generally well tolerated
Acidity
Heartburn
abdominal discomfort
ulceration of the oesophagus – but when taken correctly the
chance of oesophageal ulceration is low

Raloxifene (brand name Evista)

For bisphosphonates to be effective in increasing bone mineral density, it is important to have
an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. It is also important to have a dental check-up
and tell your dentist you are taking bisphosphonates as they can affect the bone in your jaw if
you need to have a tooth removed.
This is a selective oestrogen-receptor modulator drug or SERM
How it works that improves bone density and reduces the risk of spinal
fractures
It acts like oestrogen at some sites in the body and as an anti-
oestrogen in other sites (such as the breast and uterus and so
reduces the risk of breast cancer)

Possible side effects/risks Hot flushes, which can make it difficult for women who are
going through menopause
There is a slightly increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT
or blood clot in a vein deep in the body), so if you are going to be
immobile for some time such as a long air trip you should get
your doctor’s advice about whether to stop this treatment

SENIORS TODAY | ISSUE #12 | JUNE 2020 17