Effect of Zoledronic Acid on Pain and Bone Mineral Density in Osteoporosis: A 2-year Longitudinal Study

Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disorder associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and increased risk of fractures and chronic pain. Zoledronic acid (ZA), a bisphosphonate, is widely used in the management of osteoporosis because of its antiresorptive properties.

To evaluate the effect of zoledronic acid on pain levels and bone mineral density in patients with osteoporosis over a 2-year follow-up period.

A hospital-based observational pre-post study was conducted among 120 diagnosed osteoporosis patients. Each participant received a single dose of zoledronic acid and was followed for 2 years. Pain levels were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and BMD measurements were recorded at baseline and at structured 6-monthly intervals up to 2 years.

Participants demonstrated higher pain scores at baseline, followed by a progressive decline at 6 months, 1 year, 1.5 years, and 2 years. This decreasing trend was statistically significant (P = 0.001). Similarly, BMD was lowest at baseline and showed a consistent increase across all follow-up intervals, with the upward trend also reaching statistical significance (P = 0.001).

Zoledronic acid effectively reduces osteoporosis-related pain and significantly improves bone mineral density over time in patients with osteoporosis.