1. Biphosphonates

DAY ONE-- of treatment, anyway, a bisphosphonate called  Alendronate 70mg, taken just once weekly as follows:

1. on an empty stomach (food or meds can block absorption)
2. remaining upright for 30 minutes (to prevent reflux into the esophagus, the esophageal sphincter not being totally waterproof),
3. and with a full glass of water (to dilute the alendronate in case some reflux occurs)

I think I'll make it 45-60 minutes, just to be sure.  Alendronate esophagitis is probably the most common serious adverse side effect, ranging from mild heartburn to life-threatening esophageal ulcerations.

Then there is the rare but scary osteonecrosis of the jaw (you have to admit that plugging "necrosis" into any discussion is bound to provoke anxiety), which can occur after major jaw surgery in patients taking biphosphonates such as alendronate.