Drug description:

Alendronate sodium is indicated for the treatment of post-menopausal osteoporosis; reduces the risk of vertebral and hip fractures. Alendronate sodium is indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in men at increased risk of fracture. A reduction in the incidence of vertebral, but not of non-vertebral fractures has been demonstrated. Alendronate sodium is used in the prophylaxis of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis.
It is formulated as tablets for oral route of administration.

Mechanism of action:

Alendronate sodium is a bisphosphonate that inhibits osteoclastic bone resorption with no direct effect on bone formation. Preclinical studies have shown preferential localization of alendronate sodium to sites of active resorption. Activity of osteoclasts is inhibited, but recruitment or attachment of osteoclasts is not affected. The bone formed during treatment with alendronate sodium is of normal quality.