What should I do to minimize the risk of BONJ?
Inform your dentist that you are taking bis-phosphonates
especially if you plan to have a dental procedure
Maintain good oral hygiene, attend regular dental visits and
report any oral problems to your dentist.
If you are planning to take bis-phosphonates for cancer, you
should have a dental evaluation prior to starting the medication
and then every 6 to 12 months or as directed by your dentist.
Discuss possible side-effects with your GP
Can BONJ be treated?
There is no cure for BONJ to date.
Stopping bis-phosphonates may not alter the progression of the
disease. You should therefore discuss with your doctor whether or
not it is appropriate for you to cease bis-phosphonates.
What are the common bis-phosphonates used in treatment of
osteoporosis & cancer?
Alendronate (Fosamax, Fosamax plus, Alendro) and Risedronate
(Actonel, Actonel Combi) are most often used for osteoporosis
treatment in oral form. Pamidronate (Aredia, Pamisol) and
Zolendronic Acid (Zometa) are given by IV dose in cancer.
Note: Intravenous or IV means that a medication is injected directly
into the vein
Important Points
The main risk group for BONJ are patients on IV doses who have
CANCER — NOT patients on oral doses for osteoporosis.
The overall benefits of oral bis-phosphonates in preventing
complications (including death) from minimal trauma fractures due
to osteoporosis generally far outweigh the risk of developing BONJ.
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