Osteoporosis Medicines: Bisphosphonates

These medicines help prevent and treat bone loss. Bisphosphonates are taken in pill form or injected through an iv infusion. Read on for more details.

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Depending on your needs, your healthcare provider may prescribe medicines to prevent or treat osteoporosis.

Bisphosphonates

Several medicines make up the class of bisphosphonates. They are the most common type of medicine used to help prevent and treat bone loss. Bisphosphonates are taken as a pill. Or they are injected through an IV (intravenous) infusion. They must be taken exactly as directed. They may help:

  • Reduce bone loss

  • Increase bone density in the hip and spine

  • Reduce risk of fractures in the spine, hip, and wrist

Side effects may include:

  • Heartburn

  • Nausea

  • Belly (abdominal) pain

  • Bone or muscle pain

Taking bisphosphonates pills

Woman drinking glass of water.

Always read medicine information closely. You should not take bisphosphonates if you currently have upper gastrointestinal disease. Certain bisphosphonates must be taken:

  • On an empty stomach

  • With a full glass of water (8 oz.) first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

  • At least 30 minutes to 1 hour before any food, drink, or other medicines

  • While you are upright, either sitting or standing. You should not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine to prevent esophageal irritation

Newer medicines can be taken weekly or monthly. Talk with your healthcare provider to find out which one is right for you.