Review Article
Maximizing Effectiveness of Bisphosphonate Therapy for Osteoporosis
Abstract
While highly prevalent, osteoporosis is greatly underdiagnosed and undertreated in clinical practice. Even when appropriate treatments are prescribed, patient adherence to bisphosphonate therapy is low. As osteoporosis is a silent disease, and therapy is required for many months before benefit is realized, strategies to increase bone mineral density (BMD) and improve medication adherence are important aspects of every patient’s care plan. Osteoporotic bone loss occurs without symptoms, and there are often no warning signs before a fracture occurs. Osteoporotic fractures are the most severe consequence of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates are the most frequently prescribed treatment option for postmenopausal osteoporosis, as they effectively increase BMD, slow bone turnover, and reduce fracture rates. Strategies to improve adherence to osteoporosis therapy include reducing dosing frequency, changing the route of administration, educating the patient about optimum bisphosphonate administration, and sending patient reminders.
Key Points
* Osteoporosis is a prevalent, underdiagnosed, and undertreated disease.
* Bisphosphonates produce significant increases in bone mineral density of the spine, hip and wrist, and reductions in fracture incidence.
* Several dosing options are available among the three bisphosphonates.
* Patient adherence is critically important for positive health outcomes.
* Effective physician-patient communication is essential for long-term management of osteoporosis.
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