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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

4 min

Can I take a break from Fosamax? A comprehensive guide to bisphosphonate drug holidays

While osteoporosis is a chronic condition, many patients on bisphosphonates like Fosamax may be candidates for a temporary treatment pause, known as a "drug holiday". The practice of a drug holiday has emerged due to concerns about rare, long-term side effects and the realization that bisphosphonates remain active in the bone for years, providing some residual protection even after stopping. However, this decision requires careful medical supervision and is not appropriate for all patients.

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3 min

Can I skip Fosamax for a week? Understanding the risks of a missed dose

According to the National Institutes of Health, proper adherence is critical for the effectiveness of medications like Fosamax. If you are on a weekly dosing schedule and find yourself asking, "Can I skip Fosamax for a week?", the answer is no, you should not skip your dose, but there is a clear and simple protocol to follow for a missed tablet.

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4 min

How do you know if Fosamax is working? Monitoring treatment effectiveness

An estimated 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, a condition that makes bones weak and susceptible to fractures. For those prescribed the bisphosphonate medication Fosamax (alendronate), a common concern is **how do you know if Fosamax is working**, since its effects are not immediately felt. This guide details the objective clinical measures used to monitor your treatment.

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3 min

Guidelines: When to stop bisphosphonates in the elderly?

For elderly patients, bisphosphonates can reduce fracture risk by 30-60%, but long-term use has potential downsides. Navigating the decision of **when to stop bisphosphonates in the elderly?** requires a careful balance between continued protection and minimizing rare side effects.

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4 min

Can Bisphosphonates Improve Bone Density and Strengthen Bones?

In the U.S., an estimated 10 million people over 50 have osteoporosis, a condition of weak and brittle bones. This article explores the critical question: **can bisphosphonates improve bone density** and serve as a primary defense against fractures?

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3 min

How much does alendronate increase BMD?

In a 10-year study, treatment with 10 mg of daily alendronate produced a mean increase in lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) of 13.7%. This progressive increase in BMD is central to how much does alendronate increase BMD and helps reduce the risk of fractures in individuals with osteoporosis. The total increase, however, varies by skeletal site and duration of treatment.

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4 min

What is the oral treatment for osteoporosis? A comprehensive guide

According to the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and another 44 million have low bone density, putting them at increased risk. For many, addressing this condition involves understanding: **What is the oral treatment for osteoporosis?** This guide provides a detailed look at the available oral medications, their mechanisms, and considerations for use.

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4 min

Should I be taking Fosamax if I have osteopenia? A Comprehensive Guide

Over 40 million Americans have osteopenia, a condition indicating lower-than-normal bone mineral density, but not yet osteoporosis. Knowing whether you should be taking Fosamax if you have osteopenia is a complex decision that hinges on more than just a bone density scan.

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4 min

What is the controversy with Fosamax?

Originally approved in 1995, Fosamax, a bisphosphonate used to treat osteoporosis, was once considered a breakthrough treatment. However, a series of adverse event reports and lawsuits have ignited the controversy with Fosamax regarding its long-term safety and manufacturer warnings.

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