Bisphosphonates Increase the Fracture Rates for Osteopenia

The fracture rates for women with osteopenia (T greater than -2.5) actually increases on bisphosphonates. JAMA.1998;280:2077-2082.Cummings

The following is a quote from John Abramson's book, Overdosed America, Chapter 13.

"What about using these drugs to prevent osteoporosis? The study of Fosamax published in JAMA in 1998 also included women with osteopenia. Did Fosamax reduce their risk of fracture? The results show that the risk of hip fractures actually went up 84 percent with Fosamax treatment. The risk of wrist fractures increased by about 50 percent." JAMA.1998;280:2077-2082.Cummings.

Hip and Wrist fractures WENT UP with Fosamax in that group!!! This indicates severe derangement of bone physiology by a bad drug which is in litigation now becasue of osteonecrosis of the jaw.  The jaw bone falls apart indicating weakening of the bones, not strengthening.

For more see:

Bisphosphonates for Osteoporosis, A Closer Look at the Data by Jeffrey Dach MD

Jeffrey Dach MD

http://www.drdach.com

Lila de Tantillo

3/15/08 4:27pm

Thanks so much for sharing your viewpoint. Clearly bisphosphonate medication is not the best treatment for everyone, and the question of when (and whether) to treat osteopenia -- as opposed to osteoporosis -- with prescription medication is a great subject for discussion. That's why it's so important for us to be aware of our bone density and other risk factors and have a serious conversation with a physician about the what course of action makes the most sense for one's particular situation.