• Alendronate
  • Fosamax
  • Fosamax Plus D
• Risedronate
  • Actonel
  • Actonel W/Calcium
• Etidronate
  • Didronel
• Ibandronate
  • Boniva
• Pamidronate
  • Aredia
• Tiludronate
  • Skelid
• Zoledronic acid
  • Reclast
  • Zometa

Osteoporosis (bone loss) is the primary disease associated with long-term calcium deficiency. Osteoporosis may be associated with bone pain and spinal deformity. Depleted levels of calcium can also cause muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat, and depression.

Although phosphorus deficiency is rare, chronic low levels are associated with muscle weakness, bone pain, mental confusion, loss of appetite, anemia, increased susceptibility to infection, respiratory difficulties, seizures, and even death.

The information presented here covers some of the nutrients that may be lowered when you take certain medications. The signs and symptoms listed can be caused by other conditions. If you have these signs and symptoms, it doesn't always mean you have low levels of these nutrients. Many things affect the level of nutrients, including your medical history, diet, and lifestyle, as well as how long you have been taking the medication. Please talk with your health care provider. He or she can best address your health care needs and see if you are at risk for low levels of any nutrients.

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Cashman KD. Diet, nutrition, and bone health. J Nutr. 2007;137(11):2507S-12S.

Jara A, Lee E, Stauber D, Moatamed F, Felsenfeld AJ, Kleeman CR. Phosphate depletion in the rat: effect of bisphosphonates and the calcemic response to PTH. Kidney Int. 1999;55(4):1434-43.

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Sheweita SA, Khoshhal KI. Calcium metabolism and oxidative stress in bone fractures: role of antioxidants. Curr Drug Metab. 2007;8(5):519-25.