Adverse Effects?
Bone Loss Medication Effects
Double-edged meds: Bisphosphonates
The next time you come in for a consultation, we may be asking you the following important question: are you taking any bone-building medications such as Fosamax? The reason for the question is simple: doctors suspect a link between the use of bisphosphonates such as Fosamax, Aredia, Actonel, Aometa and Boniva and a condition known as osteonecrosis, also called bone death.
These bisphosphonates are used successfully to treat and prevent osteoporosis in post-menopausal women and to increase bone mass in men. However, it is suspected that if a patient undergoes certain dental procedures while using these drugs, it's possible that bone loss, or even osteonecrosis may occur. Initially research pointed towards patients with cancer as being chiefly at risk, but now dentists and doctors are seeing cases in otherwise perfectly healthy patients who are being treated for bone loss.
The American Dental Association recommends that before starting visphosphonates, patients have a comprehensive dental exam and treat any tooth or gum problems immediately. In addition, while on bisphosphonates, you must ensure your home care is impeccable: brush regularly, floss daily and keep your dental recall appointments. If invasive dental care is necessary, we will discuss the implications with you and choose the most conservative treatment possible.
