Osteoporosis Drugs Flashcards
What is osteoporosis and who is the at risk population
Holes in bones due to lack of calcium. Most at risk population is women who are older and have had kids.
Oral calcium supplements
Calcium sulfate, calcium carbonate and calcium acetate
IV calcium supplements and why would you use IV > oral
Calcium chloride and calcium gluconate. IV is used for critically low blood calcium levels.
What are the normal levels for calcium and what would be considered abnormal
Around 8.5 - 10.5 mg/dL. Anything above 10.5 would be considered hypercalcemic and anything below 8.5 would be considered hypocalcemic.
Contraindications of calcium supplements
Kidney stones, low blood phosphate. Take caution in patients with kidney disease or decreased GI function
What is an extremely important thing for calcium supplements for patient education
Oral calcium supps must be taken with 8oz of water
Selective estrogen receptor modulator agonist/antagonist main drug name
Raloxifene
What is the use for raloxifene
Prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis and cancer prevention
What are some risks of raloxifene
Increased risk of pulmonary embolism and DVT, hot flashes and leg cramps
Main calcitonin drug, how it is administered and the purpose of it
Calcitonin-salmon (given as a nasal spray). Increases renal calcium excretion and decreases bone resorption by inhibiting osteoclasts
What do you need to check for in a patient taking calcitonin-salmon
Chvostek’s signs or Trousseau’s sign (hypocalcemia). Monitor blood calcium levels and nostril irritation
What is the only drug to add bone (stimulate bone formation)
Teriparatide
Monoclonal antibody drug, route of administration and the use
Denosumab, injection, given every 6 months with daily calcium and vitamin D supplementation
Biphosphonate drug names
Ibandronate, risedronate. IV - Zoledronic (once yearly)
What is the most common biphosphonate drug
Alendronate
