Pharmacological Prevention and Management of Skeletal-Related Events and Bone Loss in Individuals with Cancer

To provide a literature review of the clinical efficacy and safety data of various pharmacological agents used to manage bone health in people affected by cancer.

Peer-reviewed articles and research publications identified from PubMed and relevant clinical guidelines were used in this evidence synthesis.

Individuals with cancers such as breast and prostate cancers, multiple myeloma, and other malignancies are at a high risk of developing skeletal-related events such as bone fracture, bone metastasis, and osteoporosis. Pharmacologic agents such as bisphosphonates and RANK-L inhibitor (denosumab) are the mainstay therapy options for managing bone health in this population.

Nurses and nurse practitioners should be aware of the efficacy data of bisphosphonates and denosumab but also should be well-versed in the appropriate administration of these agents, potential side effect profiles, timely assessment, and interventions to optimize quality of life.