Boniva Uses

Boniva is used for preventing and treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. By binding to certain cells and slowing the breakdown of bones, the medication can reduce the risk of developing fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist. There are also a number of "off-label" Boniva uses, including the treatment of Paget's disease, high calcium levels in the blood, and cancer that has spread to the bones.

 

Boniva Uses: An Overview

Boniva® (ibandronate sodium) is a prescription medication used for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It is part of a group of medications known as bisphosphonates.
 

What Is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis, which means "porous bone," is a disease characterized by low bone mass (bone thinning) that leads to fragile bones and an increased risk of fractures of the hip, spine, and wrist. Men as well as women are affected by this condition. Fortunately, osteoporosis is a disease that can be prevented and treated.
 
Common causes of osteoporosis include:
 
  • Age-related bone loss
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Long-term corticosteroid use
  • Certain diseases.
 
It is also thought that race and ethnicity may play a role in developing osteoporosis, but more research is needed to determine the connection.
 
Often, osteoporosis treatment is not started until a bone is broken, as there are usually no symptoms of osteoporosis. However, treatment may be started earlier if the disease is detected using a test (see Diagnosing Osteoporosis). In fact, some osteoporosis medications (including Boniva) can be used for osteoporosis prevention in women who are at high risk for developing the condition (see Risk Factors for Osteoporosis).
 
(Boniva Uses Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;