Definition: Bisphosphonates are a class of drugs that strengthen bone. In a constant state of remodeling, new bone is laid down by cells called osteoblasts and old bone is removed by cells called osteoclasts. Bisphosphonates work by inhibiting bone removal (resorption) by the osteoclasts.
Bisphosphonates are used to treat osteoporosis and bone pain from conditions such as metastatic breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and Paget's disease.
Bisphosphonates are marketed as:
Some bisphosphonates are taken once weekly while others are monthly.
The FDA has warned that "severe and sometimes incapacitating bone, joint, and/or muscle (musculoskeletal) pain" can occur in patients taking bisphosphonates. Read the FDA Warnings.
Sources:
Information on Bisphosphonates. FDA. 1/7/2008.
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm101551.htm
Pronunciation: biz-fahs-fo-nates
Also Known As: osteoporosis medications
Common Misspellings: bizphosphonate
