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Risk of Osteonecrosis from Bisphophonates

Risk of Osteonecrosis from Bisphophonates

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Key takeaways:

  • A small percentage of people taking bisphosphonates will experience osteonecrosis – bone death – in the jaw.
  • A number of factors are involved in who is at risk, including genetics. Your doctor can help with evaluating your personal risk.
  • A polygenic risk score involving 5 osteoporosis-related genes can show the genetic component of your risk.

Lifehacks:

Again, please talk with your doctor to determine what course of action is best for your situation. Genetics is only one variable involved in the decision.

Lifestyle and environmental factors that influence osteoporosis risk that you can control include:

  • cutting back on alcohol
  • never smoking
  • get enough calcium in your diet
  • exercise regularly
  • get vitamin D through supplements or sunshine
  • eating a healthy diet that promotes a healthy gut microbiome[ref]

Natural RANKL Inhibitors

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References:

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Farrugia, Matthew C., et al. “Osteonecrosis of the Mandible or Maxilla Associated with the Use of New Generation Bisphosphonates.” The Laryngoscope, vol. 116, no. 1, Jan. 2006, pp. 115–20. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1097/01.mlg.0000187398.51857.3c.
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About the Author:
Debbie Moon is a biologist, engineer, author, and the founder of Genetic Lifehacks where she has helped thousands of members understand how to apply genetics to their diet, lifestyle, and health decisions. With more than 10 years of experience translating complex genetic research into practical health strategies, Debbie holds a BS in engineering from Colorado School of Mines and an MSc in biological sciences from Clemson University. She combines an engineering mindset with a biological systems approach to explain how genetic differences impact your optimal health.