Tolerability and compliance with risedronate in clinical practice

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine
• Osteoporosis Management

Background:

• Risedronate is a bisphosphonate commonly prescribed for osteoporosis.
• Patient compliance with complex dosing instructions can be challenging in real-world clinical settings.
• Adverse events associated with risedronate can impact treatment adherence and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess patient compliance with risedronate dosing instructions in clinical practice.
• To determine the prevalence and nature of adverse events associated with risedronate use.
• To identify factors influencing compliance and adverse event occurrence.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 219 patients prescribed risedronate.
• Data collection on dosing compliance, adverse events, and patient history.
• Analysis of the relationship between patient behaviors (e.g., staying upright), gastrointestinal history, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• One in four patients exhibited non-compliance with risedronate dosing instructions, despite initial counseling.
• Patients not remaining upright post-administration were more prone to adverse events and drug discontinuation.
• Gastrointestinal issues were the most common adverse events (38%), with upper GI events in 21%; a history of GI symptoms increased this risk.
• 19% of patients discontinued risedronate due to adverse events, with limited reporting to the Osteoporosis Unit.
• Drug rechallenge was successful in nearly 50% of patients who initially experienced adverse events.

Conclusions:

• Ensuring patient compliance with risedronate requires ongoing monitoring and support.
• Adherence to specific instructions, such as maintaining an upright posture, is critical for minimizing adverse events.
• The study underscores the need for systematic follow-up of patients on long-term osteoporosis therapies, potentially involving specialized nurses.