Ostalon

Ostalon (alendronic acid) is a drug from the group of bisphosphonates, which is used for the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and in men with hormonal reduction of testosterone levels, as well as for the treatment of osteoporotic changes caused by glucocorticoids (glucocorticosteroids). Alendronic acid acts by inhibiting bone resorption, which helps reduce bone mass loss and fracture risk.

This medication is available in various forms to take, including tablets and oral solution. It is important to take alendronic acid strictly as recommended by your doctor, as improper use can lead to side effects including esophageal irritation or esophageal ulceration.

When using Ostalon or other alendronic acid-based medications, it is important to follow the intake guidelines and to consult with your doctor before starting to discuss the indications, dosage, and potential risks and benefits of treatment.

Indications Ostalona

1. Osteoporosis in post-menopausal women: Post-menopausal women experience a natural decrease in estrogen levels, which can lead to decreased bone density and the development of osteoporosis. Alendronic acid helps reduce the risk of bone fractures in these women.
2. Osteoporosis in men: Men can also develop osteoporosis, especially when testosterone levels decrease. The use of alendronic acid may help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.
3. Osteoporotic changes caused by glucocorticoids: Long-term use ofglucocorticosteroids(e.g., in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and other conditions) can lead to the development of osteoporosis. Alendronic acid may be used to treat osteoporosis caused by such drugs.

Release form

1. Oral tablets: The most common form of release. Ostalon tablets may contain varying amounts of alendronic acid, often 70 mg, intended for weekly administration. There are also tablets with other dosages, such as 10 mg for daily use.
2. Modified-release tablets: These tablets are designed to provide a more uniform release of the active ingredient in the gastrointestinal tract, which may be preferred by some patients.
3. Effervescent tablets (effervescent tablets): Some manufacturers may offer alendronic acid in the form of effervescent tablets that dissolve in water to create a solution intended for drinking. This form may make it easier for people with swallowing difficulties to take the drug.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Inhibition of bone resorption: Alendronic acidinhibits the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue. This leads to a reduction in the loss of minerals and bone mass.
2. Stimulation of bone formation: By preventing bone resorption, alendronic acid promotes the activation of osteoblasts, the cells that build new bone tissue. This may help strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis.
3. Improvement of bone metabolic activity: Due to its effect on bonemetabolism, alendronic acid helps to restore the normal balance of bone growth and destruction processes.

Pharmacokinetics

1. Absorption: Alendronic acid is poorly absorbed from the GI tract. Its bioavailability is less than 1% when taken orally on an empty stomach and less than 0.6% when taken with meals.
2. Distribution: After absorption, alendronic acid is rapidly distributed in the bones, especially in areas of active bone formation, which provides its therapeutic effect.
3. Metabolism: Alendronic acid is not metabolized and does not form active metabolites.
4. Excretion: About 50% of the administered dose of alendronic acid is excreted with urine, and the remainder is excreted with feces through the gastrointestinal tract, mostly unchanged.
5. Half-life: The half-life of alendronic acid is about 10 years, which provides prolonged therapeutic action after a single administration.

Dosing and administration

For the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men:

• Standard dosage: 70 mg once a week.

To prevent osteoporosis:

• Dosage: may be the same as for treatment, but the specific dosage should be determined by a physician.

For the treatment of Paget's disease of the bones:

• Dosage: can vary, but often starts at 40 mg per day for 6 months.

Method of Application:

• On an empty stomach: Alendronic acid should be taken in the morning, at least 30 minutes before the first intake of food, drinks or other medicines. This ensures better absorption of the drug.
• With a full glass of water: The tablet should be drunk with plenty of water (at least 200 ml) to minimize the risk of esophageal irritation.
• Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the tablet: After taking the tablet, you should remain in an upright position (standing or sitting) for at least 30 minutes. This also helps prevent irritation of the esophagus and improves absorption of the medicine.

Important points:

• Do not chew or crush the tablet: To prevent irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
• Regular intake: Regularity of intake contributes to the effectiveness of treatment.
• Effect evaluation: It is recommended that bone status be evaluated regularly to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

Use Ostalona during pregnancy

Alendronic acid (Ostalon) is contraindicated during pregnancy. Bisphosphonates, which include alendronic acid, affect the process of bone tissue renewal, which may potentially affect the formation and development of fetal bones. There is currently insufficient data on the safety of alendronic acid use in pregnant women, but it is known that bisphosphonates are able to pass through the placenta. This may lead to adverse effects on fetal skeletal development and other undesirable consequences.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: People with known hypersensitivity to alendronic acid or other bisphosphonates should not use Ostalon.
2. Seeding disorder: In the presence of a seeding disorder of the esophagus, such as achalasia or other diseases accompanied by slowed or obstructed passage of food through the esophagus, the drug should be used with caution due to the risk of developing esophageal ulcers or esophageal damage.
3. Hypocalcemia: In patients with hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels), the use of alendronic acid may aggravate this deficiency.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Ostalon during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended due to the lack of data on its safety in these conditions.
5. Pediatric age: The efficacy and safety of Ostalon in children have not been established, therefore use in persons under 18 years of age is not recommended.
6. Renal insufficiency: In the presence of severe renal insufficiency the use of Ostalon should be carried out with caution and under medical supervision, as the decrease in the glomerular filtration may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
7. Vitamin D insufficiency: Before starting Ostalon, it is recommended to make sure that there are sufficient levels of vitamin D in the body, as adequate vitamin D levels help optimize the effect of bisphosphonates.

Side effects Ostalona

1. Gastrointestinal disorders: Including dyspepsia (digestive upset), nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation.
2. Esophageal irritation: Alendronic acid preparations may cause irritation or ulceration of the esophagus, especially if taken improperly (e.g., if taken with insufficient water or lying down after taking).
3. Bone, muscle, or joint pain: Some patients may experience pain or discomfort in the bones, muscles, or joints.
4. Headache and dizziness: These symptoms may occur with alendronic acid.
5. Allergic reactions: Rare but possible development of allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, facial swelling or difficulty breathing.
6. Osteonecrosis of the jawbone: This is a rare but serious complication associated with long-term use of bisphosphonate drugs such as alendronic acid.
7. Increased body temperature (fever): Rarely, an increase in body temperature may occur.
8. Suppression of bone marrow function: Prolonged use of alendronic acid may affect bone marrow function, which may lead to the development of anemia or other hematopoietic disorders.

Overdose

An overdose of alendronic acid (the active ingredient in Ostalon) can lead to various undesirable effects, including an increase in the side effects characteristic of this drug.

Symptoms of overdose may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, esophageal ulcers, and other gastrointestinal problems. There may also be headaches, seizures, unusual fatigue, arrhythmia and other heart problems, and increased sensitivity to light. If any of these symptoms occur, you should immediately contact a doctor or medical facility for care and diagnosis.

Interactions with other drugs

1. Hypersensitivity: People with known hypersensitivity to alendronic acid or other bisphosphonates should not use Ostalon.
2. Seeding disorder: In the presence of a seeding disorder of the esophagus, such as achalasia or other diseases accompanied by slowed or obstructed passage of food through the esophagus, the drug should be used with caution due to the risk of developing esophageal ulcers or esophageal damage.
3. Hypocalcemia: In patients with hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels), the use of alendronic acid may aggravate this deficiency.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of Ostalon during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended due to the lack of data on its safety in these conditions.
5. Pediatric age: The efficacy and safety of Ostalon in children have not been established, therefore use in persons under 18 years of age is not recommended.
6. Renal insufficiency: In the presence of severe renal insufficiency, the use of Ostalon should be performed with caution and under medical supervision, as the decrease in glomerular filtration may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
7. Vitamin D insufficiency: Before starting Ostalon, it is recommended to make sure that there are sufficient levels of vitamin D in the body, as adequate vitamin D levels help optimize the effect of bisphosphonates.