Ibandronate (Boniva)
Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis should always
include a nutrient-rich diet, the recommended intake of calcium and vitamin D,
regular physical activity, safety precautions for fall prevention, avoidance of
smoking and limited consumption of alcohol. If osteoporosis is
diagnosed, you still must continue to make bone healthy lifestyle
choices. However, lifestyle modifications alone are often not enough.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe an osteoporosis
medication to help stop further bone loss and reduce your risk for
broken bones.
What are the medication options for osteoporosis?
The
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several
medications for osteoporosis which fall into two classes: antiresorptive medications and anabolic medications. Antiresorptive medications are used to strengthen bone, prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fracture (broken bone).
The antiresorptive medications include a class of drugs called bisphosphonates.The four bisphosphonate medications are:
- alendronate - available as a generic medication (Brand name: Fosamax, Fosamax D)
- risedronate (Brand name: Actonel, Actonel with Calcium )
- ibandronate ( Brand name: Boniva)
- zoledronic acid (Brand name: Reclast)
Other approved antiresorptive medications include:
Anabolic medication builds new bone, increases bone density and helps reduce fracture risk. At this time the only approved anabolic medication is:
It is important to speak to your healthcare provider about the medication option that is right for you.
What is ibandronate (Boniva)?
Ibandronate
sodium is the generic name for Boniva (brand name). It is a
bisphosphonate medication. Ibandronate is not a hormone. It works only on
the bone and does not affect the heart, breast, uterus or other parts
of the body.
What is the approved use for ibandronate?
Ibandronate is FDA-approved for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.
How is ibandronate (Boniva) usually prescribed?
The
FDA has approved ibandronate as a 150mg tablet taken
once a month or a 3mg injection given once every 3 months.
When taking ibandronate, it is recommended to get adequate calcium and vitamin D each day. It also important to follow the universal strategies for promotion of healthy bones.
What are the benefits of ibandronate?
Clinical
studies indicate that ibandronate increases bone mineral density (BMD)
of the existing skeleton and reduces the risk of spine fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. In postmenopausal women with
very severe osteoporosis, ibandronate reduces the risk of fractures
throughout the skeleton. Like all medications, it is important to
discuss all of the potential benefits and risks of taking this
medication with your healthcare provider.
What are the side effects of taking ibandronate?
The
side effects of oral ibandronate may include upset stomach (dyspepsia), pain
in the extremities (arms or legs) and diarrhea. Ibandronate tablets may also cause ulcers in the stomach or
esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach), heartburn
(esophagitis), or difficult/painful swallowing (dysphagia). Heartburn
and irritation of the esophagus but can usually be avoided by taking
the medication properly. ibandronate tablets must be taken first thing
in the morning on an empty stomach with at least 1 cup (240 ml or 8
ounces) of plain (tap) water. Do not take ibandronate with any other
beverages such as mineral water, juice, milk, coffee or tea. After
taking this medication, you must remain upright (in a sitting or
standing position) and avoid bending over or lying down for at least 60
minutes.
Injectable ibandronate does not have effect the esophagus
or stomach and there are no special instructions regarding eating,
drinking, or positioning following its use. Ibandronate sodium taken
orally or by injection have the potential adverse effect of
flu-like symptoms that may last for a few days after taking the
medication.
Rarely, dental
complications occur when taking bisphosphonate medications,mostly in
high-risk patients. It is important to see your dentist for
a complete oral examination before taking ibandronate. During treatment with a bisphosphonate medication, it
is vital to practice good oral hygiene and to continue to see your
dentist for regular checkups.and rarely, dental complications that occur mostly in high risk patients.
Like
all medications, it is important to discuss all of the potential
benefits and risks of taking this medication with your healthcare provider. For more information about ibandronate (Boniva), visit the Roche Therapeutics, Inc. website.
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