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Osteoporosis treatment: focus on safety
1Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
European Journal of Internal Medicine
|April 24, 2013
Summary
Osteoporosis treatments effectively reduce fracture risk and mortality. Bisphosphonates offer a positive cost-benefit, while calcium supplements are not cost-effective for fracture prevention.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Osteoporosis causes significant fractures, disability, and mortality in older adults.
- Available interventions can halve fracture risk and potentially reduce mortality in the frail elderly.
- The mechanism for reduced mortality from osteoporosis treatment is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of osteoporosis interventions.
- To compare the benefits and risks of bisphosphonates and calcium supplements.
- To inform clinical practice regarding osteoporosis management.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence on fracture risk reduction and mortality.
- Analysis of side-effect profiles for bisphosphonates (oral and intravenous).
- Assessment of risks associated with calcium supplements, including cardiovascular and gastrointestinal events.
Main Results:
- Bisphosphonates demonstrate a clear positive cost-benefit ratio for osteoporosis treatment.
- Calcium supplements show marginal fracture reduction but increase risks of myocardial infarction and gastrointestinal issues.
- Osteonecrosis of the jaw is rare in osteoporosis patients using bisphosphonates.
Conclusions:
- Bisphosphonates are cost-effective for treating osteoporosis despite rare side effects.
- Calcium supplements are not cost-effective and pose significant health risks.
- Dietary sources are recommended for calcium intake over supplementation.
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