Side effects of osteoporosis drugs
Although in general taking osteoporosis drugs is fairly safe for most people there are certain groups of people who should avoid them due to possible side effects.
Some of the risk groups vary from drug to drug and information on the possible side effects associated with the medication is available in the pamphlet that comes with the treatment. If you begin to suffer from any of the side effects you should discuss them with your doctor immediatly and it may be necessary for you to discontinue the use of osteoporosis medications. Remember that your own personal circumstances will have a major impact upon the correct osteoporosis treatment for you.
Known side effects of osteoporosis bisphosphonates
The way that you take osteoporosis treatments such as the bisphosphonates is very important. This is because one of the side effects of bisphosphonates is damage to the esophagus; including esophagitis, esophageal erosions and esophageal ulcers.
It is therefore recommended to take time over taking your medication. Usually it is best to take them with water in the morning before any food has been consumed and to remain in an upright position for 30 to 60 minutes (dependent upon the bisphosphonate that is being taken). Be sure to read the pamphlet that comes with your medication in full for the correct way to take your medicine.
Other common side effects in addition to possible damage to the esophagus when taking bisphosphonates as an osteoporosis medication include inflammation of the eyes, musculoskeletal pains, and jaw necrosis.
If you get any of these side effects then you should consider stopping the osteoporosis medication. In addition to these side effects you should not take osteoporosis bisphosphonate treatments if you suffer from hypocalcemia or renal insufficiency.
ReferencesMayes (2007) Review of post menopausal osteoporosis pharmacology. Nutr. Clin. Prac. 22:3: 276 to 285