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Osteoporosis medications - bisphosphonate derivatives

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Medications
Depletions
Editorial Note
Supporting Research

Medications

  • Alendronate
    • Fosamax
    • Fosamax Plus D
  • Risedronate
    • Actonel
    • Actonel W/Calcium
  • Etidronate
    • Didronel
  • Ibandronate
    • Boniva
  • Pamidronate
    • Aredia
  • Tiludronate
    • Skelid
  • Zoledronic acid
    • Reclast
    • Zometa

Depletions

Calcium

Osteoporosis (bone loss) is the primary disease associated with long term calcium deficiency. Osteoporosis may be associated with bone pain and spinal deformity. Depleted levels of calcium can also cause muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, and depression.

Phosphorus

Although phosphorus deficiency is rare, long term low levels are associated with muscle weakness, bone pain, mental confusion, loss of appetite, anemia, increased susceptibility to infection, respiratory difficulties, seizures, and even death.

Editorial Note

The selected depletions information presented here identifies some of the nutrients that may be depleted by certain medications. The signs and symptoms associated with nutrient deficiency may also indicate conditions other than nutrient deficiency. If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms mentioned, it does not necessarily mean that you are nutrient deficient. Nutrient depletion depends upon a number of factors, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle, as well as the length of time you have been taking the medication. Please consult your health care provider; he or she can best assess and address your individual health care needs and determine if you are at risk for nutrient depletions from these medications, as well as others not listed here.

Supporting Research

Basu N, Reid DM. Bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw. Menopause Int. 2007;13(2):56-9.

Cashman KD. Diet, nutrition, and bone health. J Nutr. 2007;137(11):2507S-12S.

Jara A, Lee E, Stauber D, Moatamed F, Felsenfeld AJ, Kleeman CR. Phosphate depletion in the rat: effect of bisphosphonates and the calcemic response to PTH. Kidney Int. 1999;55(4):1434-43.

Ondrak KS, Morgan DW. Physical activity, calcium intake and bone health in children and adolescents. Sports Med. 2007;37(7):587-600.

Palacios C. The role of nutrients in bone health, from A to Z. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2006;46(8):621-8.

Sheweita SA, Khoshhal KI. Calcium metabolism and oxidative stress in bone fractures: role of antioxidants. Curr Drug Metab. 2007;8(5):519-25.

Review Date: 4/19/2010
Reviewed By: Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed HealthCare Network.
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