Question
Is there an age limit when not to treat with biphoshonates patient with an osteoporotic scores by DEXA? Example: 93 year old lady who was on treated with oral steroid by primary MD for knee OA for 3 years, but have stop taking it for a few months.
Answer
I do not think that age alone should be used as a reason not to treat with a bisphosphonate. Obviously, patients should not have difficulty swallowing and must be able to follow the directions (full glass of water, empty stomach, remain upright). I have many patients in their 90’s who are tolerating therapy well. Smaller weekly doses should be considered (for example Fosamax 35 mg weekly).
