top of page
Writer's pictureLauren Fang

Med of the Week: Risedronate



Risedronate feature photo with graphic of bones and pills

Risedronate is a frequently encountered bone medication. Although dentists are commonly aware of the ONJ dangers of bisphosphonates, it may surprise you that NSAIDs and steroids should not be prescribed to patients taking Risedronate. Dive in for more insights:


Generic Name: Risedronate Sodium

Brand Name(s): Actonel, Atelvia

Pronunciation: ris ED roe nate


About this drug:

  • Risedronate is a bisphosphonate medication used to treat and prevent bone loss in women after menopause and increase bone mass in men with osteoporosis.

  • It is also used to treat bone loss caused by long-term steroid use; if there is a high risk of bone fracture due to osteoporosis; and to treat Paget's disease.


Dentistry-related tidbits:

  • NSAIDs and steroids can cause GI bleeding or ulcerations/bleeding in patients taking Risedronate. Further, aminoglycoside antibiotics such as Gentamicin, Neomycin, Tobramycin, Streptomycin increases the risk of hypocalcemia. Make sure to check for potential interactions before prescribing using a tool like Rx Check.

  • Before undergoing Risedronate treatment, individuals with risk factors for ONJ (osteonecrosis of the jaw) should undergo a dental examination and receive preventive dentistry. These risk factors include invasive dental procedures, a cancer diagnosis, concurrent therapies (e.g., chemotherapy, corticosteroids, angiogenesis inhibitors), poor oral hygiene, and co-morbid disorders. It's crucial for patients to practice good oral hygiene throughout Risedronate treatment, as the risk of ONJ may escalate with prolonged exposure to the medication.

  • At this time, there are no known restrictions for local anesthetics with Risedronate.


Fun facts:

  • Risedronate is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, usually at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day. This enhances its bioavailability and effectiveness.

  • Risedronate works by having an affinity for hydroxyapatite crystals in bone and acting as an antiresorptive agent. At the cellular level, Risedronate inhibits osteoclasts. The osteoclasts adhere normally to the bone surface, but show evidence of reduced active resorption.


Learn more by signing up for the Digital Drug Handbook today!

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.
bottom of page