Bisphosphonates counselling

Question 1

action

Answer 1

stops thinning of bones –> prevents fractures

Question 2

timing

Answer 2

once a week

Question 3

how to take

Answer 3

oral tablet or liquid Aledronic acid

same day every week

empty stomach, 30 minutes before eating in the morning with plenty of water and sit up straight for 30 minutes

if you miss one, take it asap but not 2 in a day!

Question 4

length

Answer 4

years

reviewed every year

Question 5

effects

Answer 5

preventive so takes years - difficult to see effects of preventive since problem hasn’t happened yet

usually starts working by 6 months

Question 6

tests

Answer 6

Ca levels before & during treatment

Question 7

important SEs

Answer 7

heartburn, irritation & reflux in your food pipe

nausea // abdo pain // muscle joint pain (disappear in 1 month)

Question 8

contraindications/complications (safety net)

Answer 8

oesophageal strictures

NoF fracs & osteonecrosis - rare but serious complications

persistent mouth ulcers, pain, facial swelling seek medical help

Question 9

lifestyle advice

Answer 9

supplement with exercise esp weight bearing (walking, hiking, jogging

food rich in calcium (leafy greens, dairy, bony fish)

stop smoking