Bisphosphonates
Bisphosphonates
Bisphosphonates (pronounced: bi-fos-fuh-nates) are a class of drugs that prevent the loss of bone density, used to treat osteoporosis and similar diseases. They are the most commonly prescribed drugs for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
Etymology
The term "bisphosphonate" is derived from its chemical structure, which contains two phosphonate (PO3) groups. The prefix "bis-" comes from the Latin word for "twice" or "double", referring to the two phosphonate groups.
Mechanism of Action
Bisphosphonates inhibit the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone, thereby reducing bone loss and increasing bone density. They are structurally similar to the pyrophosphate molecule, a natural inhibitor of bone resorption.
Types of Bisphosphonates
There are several types of bisphosphonates, including:
- Alendronate (Fosamax)
- Risedronate (Actonel)
- Ibandronate (Boniva)
- Zoledronic acid (Reclast)
Side Effects
Common side effects of bisphosphonates include gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing. More serious side effects can include damage to the jaw bone and atypical fractures of the thigh bone.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bisphosphonates
- Wikipedia's article - Bisphosphonates
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