Biphosphonates (such as Fosamax, Boniva, Actonel, Aredia or Zometa) have been found to increase the risk for fractures of the hip or thigh bone (femur) after long-term use in a recent JAMA study. Previous studies have found that long-term use can also cause softening of the bones. Although the risk is low, patients might be considered for a drug “holiday”. In addition there are other supplements that can prevent fractures even better than biphosphonates. (See Chapter 5pp-Osteoporosis in the Boom or Bust book.)
Posted on
Mon, March 1, 2010
by Larry Altshuler, M.D.
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