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Bisphosphonates in the treatment of osteoporosis: a review of their contribution and controversies

  • Special Issue: Jubilee
  • Published:
Skeletal Radiology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

The bisphosphonates have revolutionized the therapy of osteoporosis, particularly the prevention of vertebral and hip fractures. The development of tools for defining absolute fracture risk facilitates their targeting to appropriate, at-risk individuals. Prescribers need to be aware of their common side effects (gastrointestinal intolerance with oral dosing and flu-like illness following intravenous use). Whether these agents carry a real risk of other problems such as osteonecrosis of the jaw and subtrochanteric fractures remains uncertain at the present time. If the association of these problems with bisphosphonates is real, it is important that the major therapeutic benefits that can accrue from bisphosphonates’ appropriate targeted use are not lost as a result of the anxiety concerning these extremely rare adverse events.

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Acknowledgments

Supported by the Health Research Council of New Zealand.

Conflict of interest

The author has received research funding and acted as a consultant and as a speaker for Novartis, Amgen, Merck, and Procter and Gamble.

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  1. Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand

    Ian R. Reid

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Reid, I.R. Bisphosphonates in the treatment of osteoporosis: a review of their contribution and controversies. Skeletal Radiol 40, 1191–1196 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-011-1164-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-011-1164-9

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