From the Popular Press: What Your Patients are Reading:

Novartis AG reported study results indicating a once-yearly infusion of its drug Aclasta is more effective than daily Actonel (risedronate) at increasing bone mass in patients taking steroids. Steroids can cause bone loss and put users at an increased risk for osteoporosis. The data comes from a study of 833 men and women. Study results also show that Aclasta and Actonel (marketed by Proctor & Gamble Co) are comparable in regard to safety issues such as kidney impairment and delayed healing of fractures. Overall, Aclasta was found to be well-tolerated by patients. Both Aclasta and Actonel belong to the bisphosphanate class of osteoporosis drugs; other drugs include Merck & Co Inc’s Fosamax and Roche Holding AG and GlaxoSmithKline Plc’s Boniva. The FDA is currently reviewing this class of drugs after reported associations with severe muscle, joint, and bone pain.

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