Master of Science, Doctor, Specialist Level I Ngo Tuan Anh from the Department of Internal Medicine, Musculoskeletal, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, advises against receiving osteoporosis medication infusions earlier or later than scheduled.

Doctor Tuan Anh explains bone density measurement results to a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Osteoporosis medication is typically infused once a year to ensure complete absorption and prevent drug accumulation in the body. Receiving the infusion earlier than scheduled can lead to an overdose, potentially causing side effects such as: flu-like symptoms, mild fever, headache, or joint pain. In severe cases, it can increase the risk of early jaw osteonecrosis.

The reason is that excess osteoporosis medication, especially bisphosphonates, not only inhibits bone resorption but also reduces bone regeneration and blood supply to the bones. This can damage bone tissue, impairing its ability to recover, particularly in the jaw, which has a high bone density and is constantly subjected to chewing forces.

Conversely, delaying the infusion can also lead to problems. It may reactivate bone resorption, weakening bones, increasing fracture risk, and diminishing the cumulative therapeutic effect. Therefore, patients should strictly adhere to their scheduled osteoporosis infusions to maintain stable drug levels, ensure effective bone density improvement, reduce fractures, and avoid drug resistance and other complications. When receiving infusions, patients should visit specialized medical facilities with adequate equipment to prevent dangerous complications.

Master of Science, Doctor, Specialist Level I Ngo Tuan Anh

Department of Internal Medicine, Musculoskeletal

Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City