Side Effects of alendronate: A Synthesis of Findings from 28 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication widely used to treat osteoporosis. However, alendronate has been associated with a range of side effects. This dataset of research papers summarizes the findings of multiple studies regarding the side effects of alendronate.

Reasons for Side Effects

Alendronate is a drug that inhibits bone resorption. This effect is achieved by promoting osteoblast activation and inhibiting bone resorption. However, inhibiting bone resorption can disrupt the balance of bone metabolism, which could lead to alendronate's side effects.

Common Side Effects

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Alendronate has been reported to cause gastrointestinal side effects. Specifically, 2 , , 26 , 19 , and 12 have reported symptoms such as stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, and indigestion. These side effects are thought to be caused by alendronate irritating the stomach lining. Alendronate can also cause serious side effects such as esophagitis and ulcers. It's crucial to avoid lying down immediately after taking alendronate as the drug can remain in the esophagus, increasing the risk of esophagitis. It's important to drink plenty of water before taking alendronate and avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking it.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw

Alendronate has also been reported to cause osteonecrosis of the jaw. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a condition where the jaw bone dies. 3 suggests that the combination of alendronate and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. 19 suggests that local administration of alendronate may reduce the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is often associated with dental procedures. If you are undergoing dental treatment, it is essential to inform your dentist about your alendronate history.

Bone Side Effects

Alendronate has been reported to cause bone side effects. Specifically, 26 has reported symptoms such as bone pain and fractures. These side effects are thought to be caused by alendronate's influence on bone metabolism. While 6 suggests alendronate is effective in treating osteoporosis, caution is necessary.

Other

Alendronate can also cause other side effects such as muscle aches, joint pain, and skin rash. These side effects are thought to be caused by alendronate's impact on various tissues in the body.

Side Effects Management

Gastrointestinal Side Effects Management

To reduce gastrointestinal side effects, it is essential to drink plenty of water before taking alendronate and avoid lying down for at least 30 minutes after taking it. It may also be beneficial to take an antacid medication to reduce stomach acid before taking alendronate. Taking alendronate after meals can help minimize stomach irritation. It is recommended to avoid taking alendronate on an empty stomach or at bedtime.

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Management

To prevent osteonecrosis of the jaw, regular dental checkups and prevention of oral infections like periodontal disease are crucial. It is vital to inform your dentist about your alendronate history if you require dental treatment. Discussing the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw with your dentist and exploring mitigation strategies is essential.

Bone Side Effects Management

Regular bone density scans are essential to prevent bone side effects. If bone density decline is observed, it is necessary to consult with a doctor for appropriate treatment. Consuming calcium and vitamin D is crucial for osteoporosis prevention.

Comparison of Research

Similarities

Multiple research papers suggest that alendronate is effective in treating osteoporosis.

Differences

Research suggests that the frequency and severity of side effects can vary depending on the administration method and dosage of alendronate.

Cautions for Real-Life Applications

While alendronate is an effective medication for treating osteoporosis, it's essential to understand the potential risks of side effects. When taking alendronate, consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate administration method and dosage. Regular bone density scans are crucial for early detection of any side effects.

Limitations of Current Research

There are still aspects of alendronate side effects that remain unclear. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying alendronate side effects and develop safer medications.

Future Research Directions

Future research aims to reduce the side effects of alendronate. This includes exploring new administration methods and developing medications that prevent side effects.

Conclusion

Alendronate is a medication effective in treating osteoporosis, but it also carries the risk of side effects. It's crucial to consult your doctor before taking alendronate and to take it as prescribed, paying close attention to any potential side effects.

Literature analysis of 28 papers
Positive Content
23
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
3
Article Type
2
2
2
6
28
2.

Oral Treatment With Bisphosphonates of Osteoporosis Does Not Increase the Risk of Severe Gastrointestinal Side Effects: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Author: DömötörZsuzsa Réka, VörhendiNóra, HanákLilla, HegyiPéter, KissSzabolcs, CsikiEndre, SzakóLajos, PárniczkyAndrea, ErőssBálint

GI adverse events

This meta-analysis determined the risk of severe gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events due to oral bisphosphonate (BP) therapy in osteoporotic patients. The study found that bisphosphonates do not increase the risk of severe GI adverse events.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

4.

Versatile Polymer-Initiating Biomineralization for Tumor Blockade Therapy.

Author: JiangZhongyu, LiuYang, ShiRun, FengXiangru, XuWeiguo, ZhuangXiuli, DingJianxun, ChenXuesi

Metastasis inhibition
Osteosarcoma treatment
Tumor blockade

A novel polymer-initiating blockade therapy, using DSPE-PEG-ALN, can form a biomineral shell around osteosarcoma, inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

5.

Histamine acts via H4-receptor stimulation to cause augmented inflammation when lipopolysaccharide is co-administered with a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate.

Author: BandoKanan, TanakaYukinori, TakahashiTetsu, SugawaraShunji, MizoguchiItaru, EndoYasuo

Bone resorption
Inflammation

Histamine may be involved in alendronate-induced inflammation, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for managing the inflammatory side effects of this drug.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

6.

Monthly intravenous alendronate treatment can maintain bone strength in osteogenesis imperfecta patients following cyclical pamidronate treatment.

Author: HaradaDaisuke, KashiwagiHiroko, UeyamaKaoru, OriyamaKyoko, HaniokaYuki, SakamotoNatsuko, KondoKawai, KishimotoKanako, IzuiMasafumi, NagamatsuYuiko, YamadaHiroyuki, TanakaHiroyuki, NambaNoriyuki, SeinoYoshiki

Bone strength

This study found that monthly intravenous alendronate (ALN) infusions can effectively maintain bone strength in children with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) following cyclical pamidronate (PAM) treatment. The study demonstrated that ALN was non-inferior to PAM in increasing bone mineral density (BMD) and had no significant side effects, making it a potential alternative for long-term treatment in OI patients.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

9.

Bisphosphonates for Paget's disease of bone in adults.

Author: Corral-GudinoLuis, TanAdrian Jh, Del Pino-MontesJavier, RalstonStuart H

Improved quality of life
Reduced complications

This research examines the use of bisphosphonates for treating Paget's disease of bone. The study highlights the need for more research on the impact of bisphosphonates on quality of life and the risk of complications.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

11.

Bone-targeted delivery of TGF-β type 1 receptor inhibitor rescues uncoupled bone remodeling in Camurati-Engelmann disease.

Author: QinYunhao, TangShibing, ZhenGehua, DingQiang, DingSheng, CaoXu

CED treatment

Camurati-Engelmann disease (CED) is a genetic bone-modeling disorder caused by mutations in the gene that encodes transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). This study created a conjugate linking TGF-β type 1 receptor inhibitor (TβR1I) and alendronate, which delivered TβR1I specifically to bone. This approach may be a promising therapy for CED and other bone remodeling disorders.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

Alendronate: new formulations of an old and effective drug to improve adherence avoiding upper gastrointestinal side effects.

Author: PiscitelliP, AuriemmaR, NegliaC, MiglioreA

Alendronate fracture prevention
Alendronate osteoporosis
Alendronate side effects
Alendronate tolerability

Alendronate is a common treatment for osteoporosis, with new formulations and dosages improving its tolerability and increasing adherence to therapy.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

13.

Orbital Inflammation Caused by Aminobisphosphonates.

Author: Gonzalez BarlatayJ, Pagano BozaC, Hernandez GaunaG V, PremoliJ E

Orbital inflammation

Orbital inflammation secondary to aminobisphosphonates is a serious side effect, often indistinguishable from idiopathic inflammation. Zoledronate is the most commonly associated drug. Clinical presentation includes unilateral involvement, palpebral edema, conjunctival congestion, chemosis, ocular pain, motility impairment, proptosis, and blurred vision. Systemic corticosteroids are the treatment of choice, with timely intervention leading to favorable outcomes.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

14.

The efficacy of alendronate for the treatment of thalassemia-associated osteoporosis: a randomized controlled trial.

Author: PiriyakhuntornPokpong, TantiworawitAdisak, PhimphilaiMattabhorn, SrichairatanakoolSomdet, TeeyasoontranonWaralee, RattanathammetheeThanawat, HantrakoolSasinee, Chai-AdisaksophaChatree, RattarittamrongEkarat, NorasetthadaLalita, FanhchaksaiKanda, CharoenkwanPimlak

Improved osteoporosis treatment
Longer life expectancy

This study investigates the efficacy of alendronate for the treatment of thalassemia-associated osteoporosis.

Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

Therapeutic Anabolic and Anticatabolic Benefits of Natural Chinese Medicines for the Treatment of Osteoporosis.

Author: HeJianbo, LiXiaojuan, WangZiyi, BennettSamuel, ChenKai, XiaoZhifeng, ZhanJiheng, ChenShudong, HouYu, ChenJunhao, WangShaofang, XuJiake, LinDingkun

Improved bone metabolism
Inhibits osteoclasts

This article reviews the classic and bone-specific drugs in natural Chinese medicines for the treatment of osteoporosis that had been deeply and definitely studied and reported with both bone formation and antiresorption effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

17.

Current Treatments and New Developments in the Management of Glucocorticoid-induced Osteoporosis.

Author: RatermanHennie G, BultinkIrene E M, LemsWillem F

Improved quality of life
Bone loss
Fractures

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are often used to improve quality of life, but long-term use can cause bone loss and fractures. This review discusses the risks and benefits of GC use and recommends the use of the lowest possible dose for the shortest duration.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

18.

Using negative control outcomes to assess the comparability of treatment groups among women with osteoporosis in the United States.

Author: McGrathLeah J, SpanglerLeslie, CurtisJeffrey R, EhrensteinVera, SørensenHenrik T, SaulBradley, LevintowSara N, ReamsDiane, BradburyBrian D, BrookhartM Alan

Similar risks for negative control outcomes
Caution with injectable medications
Unmeasured confounding

Caution is warranted when comparing injectable versus oral osteoporosis medications, as unmeasured confounding may exist. Evaluating negative control outcomes could help detect residual confounding in comparative studies.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

22.

Can the alendronate dosage be altered when combined with high-frequency loading in osteoporosis treatment?

Author: CorreaC B, CamargosG V, ChatterjeeM, MesquitaM F, Del Bel CuryA A, NaertI, DuyckJ, VandammeK

Osteoporosis treatment
Alendronate side effects

Alendronate therapy, a treatment for osteoporosis, was combined with high-frequency loading in this animal study. High-frequency loading had a bone anabolic effect, but it was overruled by the different alendronate dosages. This study suggests that further research should focus on reduced hormonal therapy combined with mechanical interventions for osteoporosis treatment.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

24.

Fall Prevention and Anti-Osteoporosis in Osteopenia Patients of 80 Years of Age and Older: A Randomized Controlled Study.

Author: ZhouJian, LiuBo, QinMing-Zhao, LiuJin-Ping

Improved bone mineral density

A combination of alendronate sodium, alfacalcidol, and calcium was effective in improving bone mineral density in elderly patients with osteopenia. The study also found that avoiding falls, even without specific medication, significantly reduced the risk of fragility fractures.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

25.

Promotion effect of extracts from plastrum testudinis on alendronate against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in rat spine.

Author: RenHui, ShenGengyang, TangJingjing, QiuTing, ZhangZhida, ZhaoWenhua, YuXiang, HuangJinjing, LiangDe, YaoZhensong, YangZhidong, JiangXiaobing

Bone strength
Osteoporosis treatment
Severe side effects

A synergistic effect was found between alendronate (ALN) and plastrum testudinis extracts (PTE) in treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in rats. The combination was more effective at improving bone quantity, quality, and strength than ALN alone.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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