Efficiency of Ibandronate in Monotherapy and in Combination with Alfacalcidol in Women with Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to carry out a comparative analysis of the efficiency of ibandronate monotherapy and combined therapies with ibandronate and alfacalcidol in PMO women. Materials and Methods: A total of 53 women (mean age 60.7 years) with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) were randomized to monotherapy with ibandronate 150 mg/month (Group Ib) (n=25) and therapy with ibandronate 150mg/month plus alpha-D3(AD3)1μg (alfacalcidol) daily (Group Ib+AD3) (n=28). All women received calcium and vitamin D3 supplements. Patients were recruited in one center and were followed up for 6 months on a monthly basis. To assess the efficacy of therapy, BMD was measured at LS (L1–L4) and PF at the beginning and end of therapy by DEXA. Biochemical markers of bone turnover were also assessed. Results: Statistically significant increases in BMD compared with baseline values and the control group were observed in both ibandronate treatment groups. Growth of BMD was significantly higher in Group Ib+AD3 compared to Group Ib. An assessment of CTX dynamics showed a notable decrease in CTX level in patients of both groups compared with levels before treatment. Generally, PTH level decreased insignificantly, but a more pronounced reduction was seen in Group Ib+AD3. TP1NP level significantly increased in Group Ib and was more pronounced in Group Ib+AD3. Conclusion: Combined therapy with ibandronate sodium and the D-hormone analog alfacalcidol augments the effectiveness of treatment observed in ibandronate sodium monotherapy in PMO women.

Keywords

• menopause
• osteoporosis
• bone mineral density (BMD)
• C-terminal telopeptide (CTX)
• ibandronate sodium