The purpose of this research study is to see whether receiving a bisphosphonate medication
called risedronate can reduce bone and muscle loss following bariatric surgery. Participation
will involve up to 6 study visits and last about 1 year. Risedronate is a medication that
prevents bone breakdown and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in older men and women. However, risedronate
has not been approved for the prevention of bone and muscle loss following vertical sleeve
gastrectomy.
Participation in this study will involve completing two visits before beginning the
intervention. Participants who qualify will be scheduled to begin the intervention program
which will involve taking 6 monthly doses of a risedronate or placebo pill. Participants will
then receive monthly contacts by study staff during this time to remind participants to take
the intervention pill and ask about any adverse events. After the completion of intervention
period, participants will complete up to 4 follow up study visits at 6 months (2 visits) and
at 12 months (2 visits).