Bisphosphonate administration — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsBisphosphonate administrationGPhC CRA

A patient starts alendronic acid 70 mg once weekly. She asks how to take the tablet. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: C — Take it with water after getting up and remain upright before food

Alendronic acid has poor absorption and can irritate the oesophagus. It should be taken with plain water after getting up, with the patient remaining upright and delaying food or other medicines. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS