In brief: First once-a-month osteoporosis pill approved
In brief
In spring 2005, the FDA approved the first drug for treating and preventing osteoporosis that can be taken in one monthly dose. The drug, ibandronate (Boniva), belongs to a class of antiresorptive agents called bisphosphonates, which increase bone density by slowing the rate of bone loss. Low bone density raises the risk of osteoporosis, a condition of bone fragility that affects more than eight million women in the United States. Denser bones mean less risk of fracture. Other oral bisphosphonates are risedronate (Actonel) and alendronate (Fosamax), available in once-weekly formulations.
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