Bisphosphonates associated with improved hip, knee implant survival

Although serious adverse events should be borne in mind when considering treatment choice, Dr. Poole noted that bisphosphonates were effective for osteoporosis in the right patients, and that Dr. Prieto-Alhambra’s study was one of several identifying additional health benefits in patients undergoing total hip or knee replacement.

A poor public perception of bisphosphonates could influence adherence, and there is recent evidence that only 30% of women actually take their prescriptions to the pharmacist (Osteoporos. Int. 2013 [doi:10.1007/s00198-013-2326-5]). Concern over calcium supplementation causing heart attacks and stroke might also be a factor, as this, together with vitamin D, goes along with bisphosphonate use. Indeed, a study of 233 women taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis also presented at the British Society for Rheumatology meeting found that a lack of concomitant calcium and vitamin D supplementation was predictive of poor adherence (Rheumatology 2013;52[Suppl. 1]:i116-7; abstract 163). Other predictive factors were older age and the use of sleeping tablets.

Dr. Prieto-Alhambra and Dr. Poole had no conflicts of interests.

* Revised, 5/1/13