What it means
A class of drugs that slow the cells that dissolve bone (osteoclasts), so bone density rises and fractures become less likely. They are used mainly for osteoporosisos-tee-oh-puh-ROH-sisA condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.oste/o bonepor/o pore, small opening-osis abnormal conditionFull entry , and also for Paget disease and high calcium or bone damage from cancer. Examples are alendronate, risedronate, ibandronate (pills, daily, weekly or monthly) and zoledronic acid (an IV infusion once a year).
For the nurse
Teach for oral forms: take first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with a full glass of plain water, swallow whole without chewing or sucking, stay upright for at least 30 minutes and wait before eating, drinking anything else or taking other medicines. Report heartburn, pain on swallowing or chest pain. A dental check is advised before starting, because of a rare risk of jawbone damage.
At a glance
| Drug class | bisphosphonate |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Fosamax (alendronate); Actonel (risedronate); Boniva (ibandronate); Reclast (zoledronic acid) |
| Spanish | bisfosfonato |
| Also written | bisphosphonates |
Related terms
calcium
A mineral that builds bones and teeth and that nerves, muscles, the heart and blood clotting need to work.
osteoporosis
A condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.
hip fracture
A break in the upper part of the thigh bone, near the hip joint.