Preventing glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis

Article Abstract:

All patients who begin using corticosteroids should have their bone density measured. Those with low bone density should be simultaneously treated with drugs called bisphosphonates to prevent the drop in bone density caused by the corticosteroids. A 1997 study found that the bisphosphonate drug etidronate substantially reduced the risk of bone fractures in patients taking corticosteroids. Postmenopausal women benefitted the most from etidronate. Corticosteroids interfere with calcium metabolism and also inhibit the production of new bone. One-third of patients taking corticosteroids have a fracture within 5 or 10 years.

Health aspects, Editorial, Bones, Prevention, Complications and side effects, Corticosteroids, Adrenocortical hormones, Bone density, Osteoporosis, Fractures (Injuries), Fractures, Etidronate disodium, Etidronate, Diphosphonates

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The management of Paget's disease of bone

Article Abstract:

Paget's disease of bone is characterized by excessive destruction and re-formation of bone that often leads to enlarged bones. This can be detected on X-ray and also by radionuclide bone scans. Bone pain is the most common symptom and can be treated with aspirin, acetaminophen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The disease can lead to fractures and osteoporosis and drugs have been developed to suppress abnormal bone formation. They include calcitonin and the bisphosphonate drugs, including pamidronate, alendronate and etidronate.

Care and treatment, Osteitis deformans

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