ALENDRONATE Flashcards
1
Q
Drug class
A
bisphosphonate
2
Q
How does it work? (4)
A
- reduces bone turnover
- by inhibiting the action of osteoclasts
- osteoclasts are responsible for bone resorption
- reduces bone loss and improvement in bone mass
3
Q
Indications
A
osteoporotic fragility fractures
4
Q
Contra-indications (3)
A
- renal impairment
- hypocalcaemia
- smokers and dental disease
5
Q
What happens if alendronate is given to smokers or people with dental disease?
A
risk of jaw osteonecrosis
6
Q
What is contra-indicated with people with active upper GI disorder?
A
oral administration
7
Q
Side effects (4)
A
- hypophosphataemia
- osteonecrosis of jaw
- atypical femoral fracture
Orally
- oesophagitis
8
Q
Interactions (4)
A
- calcium
reduced uptake with
- calcium salts e.g. milk
- antacids
- iron salts
9
Q
Elimination
A
kidneys
