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Bisphosphonate·Endocrinology - Thyroid & Bone
Postmenopausal and male osteoporosis, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, Paget's disease
Max Dose
150 mg/month
Half-life
10 YEARS
Esophagitis
HIGH RISK
Food Safe
EC TABLET ONLY
Overview
Potent oral bisphosphonate for osteoporosis. Highly similar to Alendronate. Incorporates permanently into bone to halt osteoclast destruction.
Maximum Dose
Max 150 mg ONCE MONTHLY or 35 mg ONCE WEEKLY.
Clinical Focus
Standard tablets must be taken fasting and upright. However, the unique 'Enteric Coated' (EC) formulation MUST be taken WITH food.
Bottom Line
Risedronate is an oral bisphosphonate for osteoporosis with weekly or monthly dosing, but requires the same strict upright fasting administration as alendronate to prevent oesophageal injury.
Brand Names
Actonel, Actonel EC
Oral Routes
Standard Tablets (35 mg, 150 mg). Enteric-Coated (EC) Tablets (35 mg).
Prescribing & PBS
Authority Required (PBS).
Primary
Postmenopausal and male osteoporosis, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, Paget's disease.
Clinical Place
First-line oral option. The EC formulation drastically improves compliance for patients who cannot tolerate the strict fasting rules of Alendronate.