FDA: Osteoporosis Drugs Appear
Unrelated to Heart Problems


After concluding its investigation into reports of possible heart rhythm changes (atrial fibrillation) in people using popular osteoporosis medications (bisphosphonates) to prevent bone loss, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was unable to identify an association between the use of these drugs and an increased risk of developing heart rhythm changes.

Based on the available reports, the FDA was unable to identify individuals that might be at higher risk of heart rhythm changes from taking bisphosphonate medications, but it will continue to review the safety information on this class of drugs. The FDA recommends that patients already taking bisphosphonate medications continue taking them as usual. If patients experience palpitations or heart rhythm changes, they should speak to their health care provider.

Medications in Bisphosphonate Class

  • Generic Name -- Brand Name

  • Alendronate -- Fosamax®, Fosamax Plus DTM
  • Etidronate -- Didronel®
  • Ibandronate -- Boniva®
  • Pamidronate -- Aredia®
  • Risedronate -- Actonel®, Actonel® and Calcium
  • Tiludronate -- Skelid®
  • Zoledronic -- Acid Reclast®, Zometa®


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