Osteoporosis drugs: fractures and jaw rotting disease.

)Drug holiday advised for bisphosphonates

Patient using bisphophonates should be considered for a ‘drug holiday’ after five years to minimise the risk of femoral fractures, researchers say. A Canadian study in JAMA shows that older women using bisphosphonates for more than five years have a significant increased risk of subtrochanteric or femoral shaft fractures

Michael Woodhead

6minutes

What are bisphosphonates?

Bisphosphonates are a relatively new family of non-hormonal medications, which have been proven to be effective in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.

These medications work only on the bone, so they do not provide relief from menopausal symptoms or any protection against heart disease. There is also no risk of breast or uterus cancer with this type of medication.

Common names for bisphosphonates:

alendronate (Fosamax)
risedronate (Actonel)

In rare instances, some people that have been treated with bisphosphonates, especially the intravenous form, develop a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), which can cause severe, irreversible, and often debilitating damage to the jaw. ONJ can be worsened by invasive dental procedures such as tooth extractions or dental implants. People may not have symptoms in the early stages of ONJ, but pain can gradually develop as the condition progresses.

Symptoms of ONJ include:

Loose teeth
Numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw
Pain, swelling, or infection of the gums or jaw
Gums that do not heal
Exposed bone

Currently, there is no treatment that definitely cures ONJ. however, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs may help relieve some of the pain associated with ONJ. Most people diagnosed with ONJ will also need surgical treatment.

Always tell your dentist about your intake of any medication.

Alternative Treatment for Bone Health

Diet and Lifestyle

Dietary and lifestyle guidelines may assist in the management of osteoporosis:

Weight-bearing exercise that is not overly stressful on potentially fragile bone is required to maintain adequate bone density and strength.
Some nutritionists assert that excess consumption of dairy products causes acidification, which leeches calcium from the system. They argue that vegetables and nuts (www.food2live.org) are a better source of calcium and that, in fact, milk products should be avoided.
Optimising diet by reducing intake of pro-inflammatory foods (saturated fats, dairy, and other animal products).
Increase intake of fresh vegetables, whole grains (www.food2live.org), essential fatty acids, and, in particular, protein as this will help to provide essential nutrients. Emphasise foods high in essential fatty acids such as oily fish and nuts / seeds (www.food2live.org)
Eat a minimally processed diet rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients (www.food2live.org) and bioflavonoids.
Protein is essential for connective tissue support, and should be consumed regularly (www.food2live.org).
Smoking cessation is the highest priority in currently smoking patients. Minimise intake of caffeine, alcohol and salt.

Bones are dynamic organs that have the same needs as the rest of your body.

Good nutrition applies to the health of your bones.

Do you know what you need to do to safeguard your health?

Have a personal, unique and holistic prescription that will help you get the most out of your life:

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1 Comment to Osteoporosis drugs: fractures and jaw rotting disease.:

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fosamax lawsuit on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 8:01 AM

Good nutrition and proper diet are of utmost importance in preventing osteoporosis. It is also advisable to have a regular exercise to strengthen the bones.

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