Guidance to support the safe use of long-term oral bisphosphonate therapy

Recent data have suggested that the longer-term use of bisphosphonate treatment (particularly > five years) may be associated with increased risk of drug-related side effects, particularly atypical femur fracture. This document outlines an All Wales strategy to modify this risk via reassessment of patients and consideration of ‘drug holidays’. Information provided for prescribers includes a review process for patients prescribed bisphosphonate therapy for five or more years.

(September 2015)