Once-Weekly Bisphosphonates (BPs)

Alendronate (Fosamax®)

Equivalence studies have compared the effects of Alendronate 10mg daily to 70mg once weekly. The results showed similar improvements in bone density in the spine and hip, and similar reductions in fracture risk. Side effects were no different between the daily and weekly dosing routines.

Besides the same level of effectiveness, the once weekly schedule offers added convenience. The 70mg dose still needs to be taken the same way as the 10mg tablets, (i.e. on an empty stomach, 30 to 45 minutes pre-breakfast, with a full glass of water, staying upright for 30 minutes) but only ONCE a week instead of everyday.

Once-a-week 70mg Fosamax® tablets have just been approved for use in Canada.

Risedronate (Actonel®)

Studies comparing the effects of Risedronate 5mg daily and 35mg once weekly have also been done. Similar improvements in bone density were seen in the spine and hip. Reductions in fracture risk were also the same with both dosing schedules.

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