Clinical and therapeutic aspects of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by reduced bone mass and alteration in bone architecture, resulting in increased fracture risk. These fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly and impose a huge economic burden on health services. Oestrogen deficiency plays a major role in the pathogenesis of bone loss and fracture in both women and men. Other pathogenetic factors include reduced physical activity and vitamin D insufficiency. A range of options is available for the prevention of fractures in high risk postmenopausal women. These include the bisphosphonates, strontium ranelate, raloxifene and parathyroid hormone peptides. Because of their broad spectrum of demonstrated anti-fracture efficacy, alendronate, risedronate, zoledronate and strontium ranelate are generally considered as front-line options for most women. The optimum duration of treatment has not been established but re-evaluation of risk and the need for continued therapy after 5 years of treatment may be appropriate. Compliance and persistence with long-term treatment is poor but may be improved by less frequent dosing regimens.