Alendronic Acid: Quick question to the experts... - PMRGCAuk

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Alendronic Acid

Gunflash profile image
10 Replies

Quick question to the experts please.

At what dosage can I stop taking Alendronic acid? Currently taking 7.5mg Pred.

No side effects currently after being on this dosage for 2 weeks. Thanks.

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Gunflash
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10 Replies
DorsetLady profile image
DorsetLadyPMRGCAuk volunteer

I don't think it necessarily related to the dose of Pred you are on, but the length of time and dose you've been on.

It is perceived to be a long term medication, so as long as the risk is there, in theory (i.e. all the time you're on steroids)-but should be reviewed at the 5 year mark.

I stopped after 4 years (but did start at 80mg Pred) when I was on about 3-4mg can't remember exactly.

Discuss with doctor, but I imagine he'd want you to be on longer than the few months you have been... probably 2 years minimum (just a guess).

Gunflash profile image
Gunflash in reply to DorsetLady

Thanks Dorset Lady. Very helpful.

PMRpro profile image
PMRproAmbassador

There has been a study that suggested that pred was still affecting bone metabolism at a dose as low as 3mg. But as DL says, the length of time you should take AA isn't necessarily related to the pred - many experts now say that the claims of the manufacturers are wrong - they sold AA as a totally safe drug that would prevent hip fractures in everyone. In fact, the longer you take it the greater the likelihood of a couple of bone-related adverse effects, namely avascular necrosis of the jaw and the development of a porous bone structure which increases the risk of femoral fracture. The latter is a relatively new finding and has resulted in the recommendation that use of AA should be reviewed after an absolute maximum of 5 years.

Charlie1boy profile image
Charlie1boy

Hi,

Of course, everyone is different, but my GP allowed me to stop taking AA when I got down to 7 mg.

From reading what Dorset Lady and PMRpro have said, it seems there aren't any specific rules. Also, to be honest, I wasn't happy taking it!

Good luck

Paddy

Tahiri profile image
Tahiri in reply to Charlie1boy

My Rheumatologist advised me that it would make little difference if I stopped taking AA at 7mg Prednisolone. I was miserable with the recurring bouts of heartburn, so I was relieved to have permission to stop taking it. I started at 40 mg Pred last October for GCA .

pollyg263 profile image
pollyg263

i was advised by my dentist to go back to my gp and ask for a differant med than alondronic, as its not good for your jaw line and dentistry.work she was really strong on that note

AmberAliona profile image
AmberAliona

I had to stop taking Alendronic Acid because it reacted badly with my Barrett’s Oesophagus ( severe acid reflux) The Gastroenterologist said I should never have been prescribed it.

PMRpro profile image
PMRproAmbassador in reply to AmberAliona

I read the first line of your post and was about to say exactly what your gastro said!!

AmberAliona profile image
AmberAliona

Thank you.

Maisiek profile image
Maisiek

Prod Dasgupta has said I could stop taking AA when I got down to 5 mg Pred .

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