Bonviva®

Definition

Bonviva® is a drug from the bisphosphonate drug group. Bisphosphonates are also known as diphosphonates. It is a chemical compound with two phosphate groups. Bonviva® contains the active ingredient ibandronic acid (ibandronate).

Mode of action

The active ingredient ibandronic acid belongs to the group of bisphosphonates, which have a chemical structure in which two phosphorus atoms are bonded to one carbon atom. This enables them to bind very well to hydroxyapatite, which is particularly common in bone. There they are specifically absorbed by the cells responsible for bone resorption.

These cells are called osteoclasts. By absorbing the active substance, the osteoclasts are specifically inhibited in their activity and thus the degradation of bone substance, which occurs more frequently in osteoporosis, is prevented. As a result, the build-up of the bone matrix can continue unhindered and the bone multiplies again. As calcium is needed for bone formation, there should be no calcium deficiency.

Dosage

The drug Bonviva® is available in the form of tablets or as a ready-to-use syringe for regular injections. The patient can decide together with the doctor which form of application is most suitable for the patient. For example, for a patient with swallowing difficulties, the injection of the drug would be the most suitable option.

The syringes are already filled with 3 mg of the active substance ibandronic acid. The injection is administered every three months. In general, the dosage should be done after consultation with the doctor.

Fields of application

The active ingredient ibandronic acid is very often used to treat bone loss (osteoporosis) in women who are in the menopause. The hormonal changes in postmenopausal women also increase the risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures. Especially women who enter the menopause at a very early age can significantly reduce the risk.

The drug Bonviva® can help to reduce the risk of bone fractures. It has probably been shown that taking Bonviva® reduces the number of lumbar vertebral fractures. By contrast, there was no improvement in fractures of the neck of the femur. The drug can also be used to treat bone metastases in breast cancer patients.

Side effects

Like all drugs, Bonviva® can cause undesirable side effects that occur with varying frequency. Among the side effects that have occasionally been observed in patients are severe pain in the chest and during swallowing. Nausea, vomiting, malaise, headaches, muscle cramps, and muscle tremors were also frequently observed.

Due to the effect of the drug on the bone, bone, muscle and joint pain can also occur. Less common side effects include itching and eye pain, as well as swelling of various areas of the face, lips, or tongue. If the patient notices any side effects during treatment with Bonviva® , he or she should inform his or her doctor. The doctor can then decide whether it is necessary to discontinue the medication.