Oral Bisphosphonates – Part 2

If you already have heartburn or Reflux Disease (GERD), you should be cautious about taking Fosamax, Actonel, Boniva, and generic Alendronate.  Do not take an antacid or a medicine for reflux disease at the same time as an Oral Bisphosphonate because it will prevent you from absorbing the Oral Bisphosphonate. 

If you get heartburn or other stomach aches from Oral Bisphosphonates, you may have to switch to a different medicine.  Call your doctor.  Do not just stop taking the medicine.  Call your doctor to switch to something else, such as an IV Bisphosphonate or Prolia.

Studies presented at Osteoporosis meetings have shown that 40% of individuals taking monthly Oral Bisphosphonates stop in the first year.  60% of individuals taking weekly Oral Bisphosphonates stop in the first year.  If you stop taking your pills and do not ask your doctor for a different medicine, you are not treating your Osteoporosis and not protecting yourself from Fragility Fracture.

Remember that none of these medications can work without enough Calcium and Vitamin D.

Jay Ginther, MD                                              

2008 / Revised March 2011

Categorised in: Medications, Osteoporosis