Fosomax/Actonel - Osteoporosis Message Board

pentex · 07-22-2003, 05:21 PM

Are Fosomax and Actonel the same thing, i.e. the same chemical makeup?

train23 · 08-25-2003, 11:15 PM

If you look at both chemical structures listed in the patient information, the two drugs are chemically different. Fosamax has a side nitrogen chain and Actonel has a nitrogen ring. Some experts suspect this is why Fosamax is harder to tolerate than Actonel. The side nitrogen chain will react more with the esophegus and stomach, while Actonel's nitrogen ring is better self-contained and causes less irritation.

ladiedi · 08-26-2003, 07:48 AM

Do they know which works better, or which increases bone denisty more so. I have read alot and can never find a concrete answer. I seem to see a lot of "my bone scan wasn't that much increased" kind of statements on webpostings?

train23 · 08-27-2003, 12:57 PM

Both Actonel and Fosamax will build bone density. The question that needs to be addressed is which one reduces more fractures.

[This message has been edited by train23 (edited 08-31-2003).]

ladiedi · 08-30-2003, 07:23 PM

Why would they give one over the other?