1. A class of drugs that slow bone loss and are used to treat osteoporosis, Paget's disease, and certain cancers.
Usage: medical/pharmaceutical term; typically used in plural form; also called diphosphonates

Examples

• Bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed to postmenopausal women at risk of osteoporosis.
• The doctor recommended bisphosphonates to strengthen her weakened bones.
• Bisphosphonates work by inhibiting osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption.
• Patients taking bisphosphonates should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• Several bisphosphonates, including alendronate and risedronate, are available as oral medications.