Bisphosphonates for postmenopausal osteoporosis

Bone. 2011 Jul;49(1):82-8. doi: 10.1016/j.bone.2011.02.011. Epub 2011 Feb 22.

Abstract

Bisphosphonates are effective in reducing bone turnover, increasing BMD and reducing fracture risk in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The licensed bisphosphonates exhibit some differences in potency and speed of onset and offset of action. These differences mean that different agents may be more advantageous in different situations. Uncertainties still exist around the optimum duration of treatment and treatment holidays, how best to use bisphosphonates with anabolic treatments, and the benefits of treatment in patients who do not have a BMD T-score below -2.5.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Diphosphonates / therapeutic use*
  • Fractures, Bone / complications*
  • Fractures, Bone / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / complications
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / drug therapy*
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / etiology
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / physiopathology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Diphosphonates