Long-term experience with alendronate in the treatment of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterised by increased bone turnover, low bone mass and impaired bone microarchitecture, leading to increased fracture risk. Effective anticatabolic therapies decrease fracture risk by reducing the rate of bone turnover, thereby maintaining bone microarchitecture and increasing bone mineral density. At present, potent oral bisphosphonates, such as alendronate (FOSAMAX; Merck & Co.), are preferred for the treatment of osteoporosis. Long-term clinical trial data demonstrate that alendronate is effective and generally well tolerated. Results from head-to-head studies and meta-analyses suggest that alendronate is more effective than certain other anticatabolic agents in the treatment of patients with osteoporosis.