Long-term Treatment with Bisphosphonates and Their Side Effects in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis - Review

Abstract

Bisphosphonates are the most commonly used drugs for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates are generally well tolerated and safe. Nevertheless, adverse events have been noted. Effects on the gastrointestinal tract and kidney function are well recognized, as are transient acute-phase reactions. Atrial fibrillation was first identified as a potential adverse event in a zoledronate trial, but subsequent trials and analyses failed to substantiate an association with bisphosphonates. Likewise a possible association between bisphosphonate use and osteonecrosis of the jaw, esophageal cancer and subtrochanteric fractures has also been suggested. However, the risk appears to be low, with no evidence from prospective RCTs of a causal association. (From the World of Osteoporosis 2010;16:66-71)

Keywords

• Bisphosphonates
• osteoporosis
• safety
• adverse events