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Bisphosphonates.
Irene Lambrinoudaki1, George Christodoulakos, Dimitrios Botsis
1Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, Artetaieio Hospital, Athens, Greece. ilambrinoudaki@hotmail.com
Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences
|February 20, 2007
Summary
Bisphosphonates are potent antiresorptive drugs that reduce bone turnover and fracture risk in osteoporosis. While generally safe, oral forms can cause upper gastrointestinal irritation.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Bone Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Bisphosphonates are pyrophosphate analogs with a P-C-P bond.
- They are potent antiresorptive agents inhibiting osteoclast activity.
- Bisphosphonates accumulate at bone remodeling sites due to high affinity for bone surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and administration of bisphosphonates.
- To highlight their role in managing osteoporosis.
- To discuss common side effects and newer formulations.
Main Methods:
- Review of bisphosphonate mechanisms and clinical applications.
- Comparison of oral and intravenous bisphosphonate therapies.
- Analysis of bone mineral density and fracture risk reduction.
Main Results:
- Bisphosphonates effectively reduce bone turnover, increase bone mineral density, and decrease fracture risk.
- Common oral bisphosphonates include alendronate and risedronate (daily/weekly).
- Newer agents like ibandronate (monthly) and zoledronate (annual i.v.) show comparable efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Bisphosphonates are crucial for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis.
- Administration routes and frequencies vary, impacting patient compliance and efficacy.
- Upper gastrointestinal irritation is the primary side effect of oral bisphosphonates.
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