Bisphosphonates increase risk of atypical fracture
More evidence that bisphosphonates (Fosamax® (alendronate), Boniva® (ibandronate), Actonel® (risedronate), Reclast® (zoledronic acid), etc.) by increasing bone density while sacrificing bone health increase the risk of atypical fractures is presented in a study just published in the journal Family Practice. The authors state:
"Studies suggest an increasing occurrence of atypical femoral fractures with the use of bisphosphonates."
So they set out to examine whether the use of bisphosphonates increases the risk for atypical fractures by a review and meta-analysis of studies totaling 658,497 subjects that evaluated bisphosphonate therapy versus no treatment and reported the incidence of subtrochanteric or diaphyseal fractures. The data confirmed their concern about bisphosphonates:
"Ten studies were included in the meta-analysis which demonstrated a statistically significant increased risk of subtrochanteric or diaphyseal fracture with bisphosphonate use [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 1.99]. Subtrochanteric fractures showed an AOR = 2.71. Diaphyseal fractures had an AOR = 2.06."
Clinical note
Bisphosphonates artificially increase bone density by killing off osteoclasts, the bone cells that remove old bone in preparation for new in the normal renewal process that maintains healthy elastic bone. This achieves density with aged bone that should be recycled. And bisphosphonates do not address the primary causes of osteoporosis and osteopenia—chronic inflammation and a deficient hormonal milieu, or contributing causes including low vitamin D, protein malabsorption, low vitamin K, etc.See also:
- Zoledronic acid ups bone density but doesn't reduce fractures
- Fractures and other complications of osteoporosis drugs
- Osteoporosis and autoimmune inflammation
- Bisphosphonates adversely affect orthodontic treatment
- Oral bisphosphonates increase osteomyelitis of the jaw.
The authors conclude:
"Results suggest there is an increased risk for atypical fractures associated with bisphosphonates and raises awareness to the potential complications related with bisphosphonates. These findings warrant the comprehensive evaluation of patients before initiating bisphosphonate therapy and highlights the need for additional medical decision analyses in future studies to compare the benefit over potential harms of bisphosphonate therapy."