Risedronate is generally prescribed for several years as part of long‐term osteoporosis management. Most guidelines advise that patients using bisphosphonates be re‐evaluated after three to five years of therapy. In the case of risedronate, its lower affinity for bone means that its beneficial effects may diminish faster than with agents such as alendronate.
Low to moderate fracture risk
Because of this, if a patient’s fracture risk is low or moderate, a “drug holiday” (a temporary break in treatment) may be considered after completing your course of risedronate.
In practice, many experts have suggested that a break lasting about one to two years is appropriate after risedronate because its antiresorptive benefits tend to wear off more quickly.
Higher risk of fractures
However, if you are at higher risk of fractures, for example, if your bone mineral density is very low or if you have already sustained fragility fractures, it is common to continue treatment beyond five years without a break.
Discussing your personal fracture risk with your doctor
Your doctor will monitor your bone density and any changes in risk factors (such as new fractures or a decline in bone density) to decide whether to resume treatment sooner. In other words, the decision on duration is tailored to each individual based on clinical factors and the response to treatment.
It is important to discuss your personal fracture risk, bone density measurements, and overall health with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate duration of risedronate treatment for you.
Where to buy risedronate
Here are the most reliable and trusted sites where you can purchase risedronate products: