risedronate
Meaning of risedronate: Risedronate belongs to the bisphosphonate drug class and is an established medication for slowing bone loss and reducing fracture risk.
Definition of risedronate
Risedronate is a bisphosphonate medication used to treat and help prevent osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become progressively thinner and more prone to fracture. It works by binding to bone surfaces and slowing the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down old bone tissue, allowing bone-building cells to work with less competing bone loss.
Risedronate is generally taken by mouth on a set schedule, either daily or weekly, and is typically taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, since food and certain beverages can reduce how much of the drug the body absorbs. Poor absorption is a known limitation of oral bisphosphonates as a class.
Like other bisphosphonates, risedronate is generally intended for long-term use, and its effect on bone density is reassessed periodically alongside other measures of fracture risk.
Also known as
Used in a sentence
Risedronate was prescribed for the patient's osteoporosis following a bone density scan showing significant bone loss.
Good to know
Risedronate requires careful timing around food and other medications because of limited absorption, a known feature of oral bisphosphonates generally rather than a sign that a particular dose is not working.