Bisphosphonates
Women want to know when it is appropriate to take a drug for osteoporosis, and which treatments are safe and effective. History has shown that preventing loss of bone mineral density in women who are otherwise at low risk of experiencing a fracture is dangerous.
The National Women’s Health Network believes women have a right to know the potential benefits and risks of osteoporosis treatment, so we took a firsthand look at the evidence. We’ve compiled consumer health information about the drug so you can get the unbiased truth.
I have been treated with Aclasta for the last four years. My doctor wants to switch me to Prolia. He told me research has shown that using the same drug reduces its effectiveness. Is it true that Aclasta may lose effectiveness over extended use?
Women continue to experience gaps in healthcare access for a variety of issues, and we advocate for changes in the healthcare system that would remedy this. Bisphosphonate use, however, is one time when less really is more.
Reclast is one of eight FDA approved bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonates are a type of drug commonly used for osteoporosis treatment and prevention.
The NWHN acknowledges the overbearing influence pharmaceutical companies have on doctors and patients. This issue arises for those diagnosed with high bone fracture risk. Women are specifically targeted since they’re five times more likely to be diagnosed than men.
Bisphosphonate use for prevention has declined in recent years – and that’s a victory! But we’re concerned that a recent article in the Wall Street Journal with the misleading title “More Support for Osteoporosis Drugs: The benefits of bisphosphonates outweigh the risks for many patients” encourages the overuse of drugs that have not proven safe or effective as a preventive measure for women.
The way we screen and treat osteoporosis is still deeply flawed. The NWHN thinks women deserve better, and we’re fighting to make that vision a reality.