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Medications for Osteoporosis and Heart Problems |
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Latest Health News
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Many bone saving medications fall into the category of Bisphosphonates. These medications are now thought to have negative cardiac side effects in rare cases.
Researchers reviewed the newest study information on the bisphosphonates and found cases of atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by erratic heart rhythms and can cause clotting of the blood. These clots can lead to both Heart attack and Stroke if undetected and untreated.
Doctors knew of the gastrointestinal troubles associated with using bisphosphonates, but the presence of cardiac side effects and the potential seriousness of these side effects is a new finding. In up to 2% of the people taking drugs from this family, there is an increased risk of cardiac problems.
While 2% of the population may not seem like a huge number, when the number of people taking these osteoporosis drugs is in the millions that percentage can be huge.
Bisphosphonates work in the body by increasing the mineral density of the bone. Most patients prescribed these medications are women who suffer from osteoporosis or have suffered a hip fracture. The common names for prescription medications in the bisphosphonate family include Fosamax, Reclast, Boniva and Actonel.
Other side effects known to be associated with bisphosphonates include Stomach problems, nausea, Pain in the abdomen, Constipation, Diarrhea, muscle pain, joint pain and difficulty healing after dental procedures.
Currently, the FDA is reviewing the safety of drugs containing bisphosphonates.
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