Clinical Medicine Reviews in Therapeutics

Risedronate is a third generation bisphosphonate used in the prevention of osteoporotic fractures and the treatment of Paget’s disease. In patients with osteoporosis, risedronate reduces bone turnover, improves bone density and reduces the risk of both vertebral and non-vertebral fractures. Efficacy has been established in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis, osteoporosis in men, and in osteoporosis secondary to glucocorticoids. There is a rapid onset of effect with a reduction in bone turnover seen within 1 month and fracture risk reduction as early as 6 months. In Pagets disease treatment with risedronate reduces bone turnover and improves bone pain. Short term treatment results in a sustained benefit.