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Bisphosphonate administration — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsBisphosphonate administrationGPhC CRA

A 67-year-old woman collects alendronic acid 70mg once weekly for osteoporosis. She asks how to take it because she already takes calcium tablets with breakfast. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Take it with plain water on waking and remain upright before food or other medicines

Alendronic acid can cause oesophageal irritation and has poor absorption with food or mineral supplements. It should be taken with plain water on waking, with the patient remaining upright and delaying food and other medicines as instructed. Calcium should be separated. This counselling is central to both safety and efficacy.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS