Airway consequences of alendronic acid aspiration

Bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed medications to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Although possessing low side effect profiles, the potential for severe topical effects is rare but important. Irritation of the upper gastrointestinal tract is well documented; however, the risk and effects of accidental aspiration are rarely reported. Attention is drawn to a case recently managed at a tertiary head and neck centre where a patient in their 70s was admitted in respiratory distress 3 days after aspirating alendronic acid. This case highlights the potential risk of topical chemical injury posed to the airway by bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates should be prescribed with detailed and specific counselling regarding this risk. Pharmacological product literature should be updated to reflect the risk. Clinical teams should be aware of and vigilant for the delayed presentation and prolonged symptom course of such injuries. Prompt airway intervention and techniques to minimise further mucosal trauma ensure optimal outcomes.Summary Bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed medications to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Although possessing low side effect profiles, the potential for severe topical effects is rare but important. Irritation of the upper gastrointestinal tract is well documented; however, the risk and effects of accidental aspiration are rarely reported. Attention is drawn to a case recently managed at a tertiary head and neck centre where a patient in their 70s was admitted in respiratory distress 3 days after aspirating alendronic acid. This case highlights the potential risk of topical chemical injury posed to the airway by bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates should be prescribed with detailed and specific counselling regarding this risk. Pharmacological product literature should be updated to reflect the risk. Clinical teams should be aware of and vigilant for the delayed presentation and prolonged symptom course of such injuries. Prompt airway intervention and techniques to minimise further mucosal trauma ensure optimal outcomes.Summary Bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed medications to prevent and treat osteoporosis. Although possessing low side effect profiles, the potential for severe topical effects is rare but important. Irritation of the upper gastrointestinal tract is well documented; however, the risk and effects of accidental aspiration are rarely reported. Attention is drawn to a case recently managed at a tertiary head and neck centre where a patient in their 70s was admitted in respiratory distress 3 days after aspirating alendronic acid. This case highlights the potential risk of topical chemical injury posed to the airway by bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates should be prescribed with detailed and specific counselling regarding this risk. Pharmacological product literature should be updated to reflect the risk. Clinical teams should be aware of and vigilant for the delayed presentation and prolonged symptom course of such injuries. Prompt airway intervention and techniques to minimise further mucosal trauma ensure optimal outcomes.