I’m going to have a new hip joint put in. I have both osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. I’m taking Fosamax for the osteoporosis. Will this interfere with my new hip?

It shouldn’t. Many studies on animals and humans have confirmed that Fosamax, a bisphosphonate drug, helps build up bone. It’s used most often for patients with osteoporosis. But it may have some good uses for patients getting joint replacements.

Early studies on animals show that bisphosphonates used before and after joint surgery can build up and sustain bone growth. Improving bone mineral density helps stabilize the joint and prevent implant loosening.

It’s not clear yet just how this works or how much of the drug is needed. More studies are needed to gauge how long the effects will last. For right now it looks like there’s a good chance that bisphosphonates will extend the life of joint replacements.