Each year millions of North Americans take medication that is supposed to help increase their bone strength. More than 20 million prescriptions of Bisphosphonates are written by doctors every year for the treatment of post menopausal osteoporosis (brittle bones). The common brand names of the drugs are Fosamax, Actonel, and Boniva.
May Hurt Instead of Help
The irony is that while these drugs are promoted and prescribed to help increase bone strength, new medical evidence indicates that long term use of the medication may actually cause bone loss.
Researchers at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington B.C. found evidence of unusual fractures in patients taking Bisphosphonates medication.
In the United States the FDA has warned users to talk to their doctors if they develop new hip or thigh pain. The FDA has warned doctors to be aware of the possible risk of fractures in patients taking Bisphosphonates medication.
Last week Health Canada announced it is reviewing the risks posed by Bisphosphonate medication.
4 Questions You Need to Ask
As always, when you are prescribed medication by your doctor you should ask your doctor the following questions:
1. Why are you prescribing this medication?
2. What illness or symptoms is the medication supposed to treat?
3. Are there any known side effects of the medication?
4. Are there any particular risks of taking the medication that I should be aware of?
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