Abstract: The present invention relates to novel p75 heterodimer specific anti-human IL-12 antibodies that are characterized by a higher potency and greater efficacy in neutralizing human IL-12 bioactivity than known heterodimer specific IL-12 monoclonal antibodies. The heterodimer specific antibodies recognize one or more epitopes of the human IL-12 p75 heterodimer, but do not bind to the p40 subunit alone. The heterodimer specific IL-12 antibodies neutralize rhesus monkey IL-12 bioactivity with a potency similar to their potency for neutralizing human IL-12 bioactivity making them useful IL-12 antagonists for in vivo studies in the rhesus monkey.

Abstract: A method comprising orally administering to a human or other mammal a pharmaceutical composition comprising from about 65% to about 110% of the cumulative effective dose of risedronate or a pharmaceutically acceptable acid, salt, ester, solvate, or polymorph thereof according to a continuous dosing schedule of one, two, or three consecutive days per month is useful for treating or preventing osteoporosis and other bone metabolic disorders.