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User-friendly osteoporosis therapy launched

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A formulation designed to help patients take osteoporosis supplementation regularly and correctly has been launched in the UK.

Actonel Combi combines dosing of once-weekly bisphosphonate (Actonel 35mg [risedronate]) with vitamin D (880IU) and the recommended daily dose of calcium (1,000mg) in a single pack.

Osteoporosis is usually symptom-free until a bone is fractured and compliance with treatment is often poor.

UK standard practice is to co-prescribe calcium and vitamin D with a bisphosphonate for osteoporosis patients.

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However, research in the journal Osteoporosis International indicates that osteoporosis patients may not be receiving the full benefit of their osteoporosis treatment due to failure to fully comply with their co-prescribed calcium and vitamin D supplementation, which can lead to decreased ability of bisphosphonates to reduce fracture.

Oxfordshire GP Dr Sally Hope commented: “We can see from recent market research data conducted in Europe that 43% of patients are not taking any calcium and/or vitamin D supplementation with their bisphosphonate treatment, despite clear recommendations to do so.

“Providing calcium and vitamin D in a package with a bisphosphonate may be a simple solution to the problem, providing patients with an improved chance of fracture protection.”

Dr Richard Keen, consultant rheumatologist at London’s Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, commented: “As calcium interferes with the absorption of bisphosphonates, taking calcium supplements incorrectly could result in reduced effectiveness of osteoporosis therapy.

“Any measures that help overcome this issue are very welcome.”

Procter & Gamble






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