What are the differences between the different bisphosphonate drugs?
Bisphosphonate medications differ in chemical structure. This results in different binding to bone and different potency in slowing the removal of old bone. They also differ by dosing schedule (cyclic, daily, weekly, monthly, annually) and route of administration (oral, intravenous). The specific medications used are detailed above. Bisphosphonates given by an intravenous infusion can ensure absorption of the medication with effectiveness lasting one year or longer. Etidronate can weaken bone if given continuously and must be given in cycles to allow the bone to recover. All other bisphosphonates do not have this effect and can be given continuously. Alendronate, risedronate and zoledronic acid have been shown to reduce spine, hip and non-spine fractures. Different bisphosphonate therapies have different approvals by Health Canada as a result of the trials which have been performed. Direct fracture comparison of one agent against another has not been performed and so we cannot answer w
Related Questions
- How is international trade affected by changes/differences in food safety regulations in different countries?
- Can differences in management processes explain different outcomes between stroke unit and stroke-team care?
- What are different types of debt, ranked by seniority, and what are their key differences?
