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[Fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis are prevented by an annual infusion of zoledronic acid]

Author(s): Geusens PP, Lems WF

Affiliation(s): Academisch Ziekenhuis Maastricht, afd. Interne Geneeskunde/Reumatologie, Postbus 5800, 6202 AZ Maastricht. piet.geusens@scarlet.be

Publication date & source: 2007-06-30, Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd., 151(26):1445-8.

Publication type: English Abstract

A randomised, placebo-controlled study into the effects of the annual intravenous administration of zoledronic acid for the prevention of fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis was recently published. Zoledronic acid, a bisphosphonate, inhibits osteoclasts. The study included 7765 patients with osteoporosis, between the ages of 65 and 89 years, who were given calcium and cholecalciferol daily by mouth in addition to 5 mg zoledronic acid or placebo once a year. Three infusions were given to 81% of the patients. Fewer fractures were seen in the study group than in the control group: after 3 years, hip fractures were reduced by 41%, non-vertebral fractures by 25% and vertebral fractures by 70%, already within one year (by 6o%). Side effects included acute phase reactions, atrial fibrillation, ocular complaints, renal-function disorders, and hypocalcaemia. Some examples of candidates for treatment with zoledronic acid would be patients with osteoporosis in whom oral treatment meets objections or who are hospitalised due to a fracture.

Page last updated: 2007-08-04

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