Antiresorptive Therapies for Osteoporosis
Stuart Weinerman1, Gianina L Usera1
1Division of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Department of Medicine, Hofstra North Shore-LIJ School of Medicine, 865 Northern Boulevard, Suite 203, Great Neck, New York 11021, USA.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinics of North America
|September 29, 2015
Summary
Osteoporosis treatment with bisphosphonates is effective but carries risks. Long-term use, over 10 years, increases the chance of serious side effects like atypical femur fractures.
Area of Science:
- Bone health and metabolic disorders
- Pharmacological treatments for osteoporosis
Background:
- Osteoporosis is a prevalent condition characterized by low bone density, leading to increased fracture risk.
- Antiresorptive medications, particularly bisphosphonates, are highly effective treatments for osteoporosis.
- While bisphosphonates are well-studied for efficacy and safety, concerns exist regarding long-term use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the established efficacy and safety of bisphosphonate therapy for osteoporosis.
- To highlight emerging evidence on the risks associated with prolonged bisphosphonate treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature on bisphosphonate therapy in osteoporosis.
- Analysis of data concerning the long-term safety profile of bisphosphonates.
Main Results:
- Bisphosphonates demonstrate significant efficacy in managing osteoporosis.
- Extended use of bisphosphonates (over 10 years) is associated with an elevated risk of specific adverse events.
- Key serious side effects include atypical femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Conclusions:
- Bisphosphonates are a cornerstone of osteoporosis management due to their effectiveness.
- Clinicians must carefully weigh the benefits against the potential serious risks of long-term bisphosphonate therapy.
- Monitoring for and awareness of atypical femur fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw are crucial in patients on long-term treatment.
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