By the way, doctor: What can I take for osteoporosis besides Fosamax?

Published: December, 2006

Q. I'm 60 and have osteoporosis. My doctor is recommending Fosamax, but I'm concerned about jawbone problems. Are there any other drugs I can take?

A. Many are asking the same question because of the publicity surrounding a small number of women who've suffered the death of jawbone tissue (osteonecrosis of the jaw) while taking medications in the same class as Fosamax (alendronate). Statistically speaking, the risk is small — less than 1 in 100,000 — but it is genuine, and there are some alternatives.

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