Osteoporosis is a systemic condition characterised by low bone mineral density (BMD) and disrupted bone architecture, which increases in prevalence with age
Osteoporosis increases the risk of fracture, most notably in the spine, forearm and hip. As older people are already more prone to falls, osteoporosis drastically increases the probability that a fall will result in fracture (fragility fracture).
Bisphosphonates are a group of medicines that are given intravenously (IV) for numerous bone disorders including Osteoporosis and Pagets Disease. There is strong evidence that bisphosphonates reduce the incidence of fractures in people with osteoporosis.
While most medications for osteoporosis are taken by mouth and on a weekly basis, these IV treatments are only once a year. The infusion takes under one hour, and has improved effectiveness compared to oral dosing.
Oral medications given for increasing bone strength can have side effects – such as severe gastric or oesophageal upset. When taking these medicines, you need to take them with a large glass of water and prior to meals, then walk around for 30 minutes afterwards so as to avoid these side effects.
Prior to the infusion of Bisphosphates, you need to be adequately hydrated, and staying hydrated after the infusion is very important. To assist with this, The Infusion Clinic administers extra IV fluids if there is no health contraindication.
It is important that before these infusions:
- you have had a complete dental work up with your dentist and let him or her know that you will be receiving this infusion.
- and a recent blood test done.
The Infusion Clinic Nurse Specialist, is here to assist with getting the right blood tests done prior to the infusion.
Bisphosphonates cannot be given if you have low calcium levels or are pregnant.
If you think this treatment is suitable for you, please ask your Doctor to refer you to our clinic
All treatments follow strict infection control protocols at each stage of administration.
