By the way, doctor: Should I stop taking bisphosphonates?
Q. I'm hearing more and more about deterioration of the jawbone associated with bisphosphonate drugs. I've been taking Fosamax for over six years for osteoporosis. What should I do?
A. Bisphosphonates are widely prescribed for osteoporosis. They are also used to treat bone pain and other complications in cancer patients who have bone involvement. Besides alendronate (Fosamax), these drugs include risedronate (Actonel), ibandronate (Boniva), tiludronate (Skelid) and etidronate (Didronel), which are taken by mouth, and the more potent zoledronate (Zometa), pamidronate (Aredia), and clodronate (Bonefos), which are given intravenously.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.