Bone Health
Bisphosphonate and oestrogen-based tablets for osteoporosis, bone loss and fracture risk make up this small range of four medicines, including Fosamax, Evista, Actonel and Estrace.
Key points
- Bisphosphonates slow the rate at which bone is broken down and are widely used in osteoporosis.
- Bone-density testing and fracture-risk assessment help set the context for osteoporosis treatment.
- Non-bisphosphonate options are also part of osteoporosis care, including oestrogen-based Estrace, listed here for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Fosamax, Evista and other medicines in this range
Alendronic acid is the ingredient in Fosamax, listed for osteoporosis and Paget’s disease of bone. Actonel contains risedronate, listed for the same two conditions. Raloxifene, the ingredient in Evista, is listed for postmenopausal osteoporosis and breast cancer. Estradiol in Estrace is also listed for postmenopausal osteoporosis, alongside menopausal vasomotor symptoms and atrophic vaginitis.
Further reading
Which bone health medicines are available on Direct Meds?
Direct Meds lists 4 bone health medicines. Together they contain 4 different active ingredients, including alendronic acid, raloxifene and risedronate. Examples include Fosamax and Evista; all 4 medicines are listed on this page.
What are bone health medicines used for?
Between them, the bone health medicines on Direct Meds are used for postmenopausal osteoporosis, Paget's disease of bone and osteoporosis.
What form do bone health medicines come in?
They come as tablets. The strengths are listed on each product page.
How do I choose between the bone health medicines on Direct Meds?
Start with the active ingredient: there are 4 different ones in this range. Products with the same active ingredient contain the same medicine. Compare their strength, form and price per tablet. Each product page's details table lists uses, how quickly it works, side effects and interactions. If you take other medicines, are pregnant or have a long-term condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.
Will I receive branded or generic bone health medicines?
Usually a generic. Names such as Fosamax and Evista identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength. The generic brand and maker depend on stock.
What you will receive →How are bone health medicines priced?
Compare each medicine, strength and pack on its product page. Prices are shown in rand, converted from US dollars, so the final rand total can change with the exchange rate. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Are bone health medicines available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order bone health medicines. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Can I order bone health medicines online in South Africa?
Yes. Choose a product, strength and pack, then check out. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →