Michele B. Kaufman, PharmD, BCGP | Issue: December 2017 |
Recent trials show this bisphosphonates can reduce subsequent hip fractures and mortality, while remaining cost effective.
ACR CONVERGENCE 2020—Bisphosphonates are an important treatment for millions of older Americans with osteoporosis because the drugs inhibit osteoclastic bone resorption to reduce the risk of painful, debilitating fractures.1 More than 20 years ago, data emerged that bisphosphonates have a long terminal half-life.2 So after years of therapy, could some patients take a drug holiday?…
It is well known that hip fractures are associated with significant morbidity and mortality: Mortality increases 15–25% in the year following a hip fracture.1–5 We know that treating osteoporosis prevents fractures and improves patient survival. But is there a relationship beyond this? Several studies have found that bisphosphonate therapy is associated with a reduction in…
A task force of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) has released new recommendations delineating the potential benefits and risks of prolonged therapy with oral and IV bisphosphonate therapy and providing guidance on duration of bisphosphonate therapy for postmenopausal osteoporosis.1 The task force makes clear that data and clinical experience on which…