MSK

Question 1

What is the most common important side effect to warn patients about when starting alendronic acid?

Answer 1

Oesophagitis

Osteonecrosis of the jaw is rare and is more common with IV bisphosphonates e.g. zolendronic acid

It is worth considering asking the patient to have a dental check up prior to starting on bisphosphonates especially if they have cancer are starting IV bisphosphonates or have poor dental hygiene.

Question 2

How do bisphosphonated work?

Answer 2

Inhibit osteoclasts

Question 3

Alendronic acid is associated with increased risk of stress fractures in the proximal femoral shaft, true or false?

Answer 3

True

Question 4

True or false, bisphosphonates are associated with raised serum calcium?

Answer 4

False

Lower serum calcium due to less bone resorption

Question 5

When would you consider stopping bisphosphonates?

Answer 5

Patient is < 75-years-old
Femoral neck T-score of > -2.5
Low risk according to FRAX/NOGG