Fracture prediction after discontinuation of 4 to 5 years of alendronate therapy: the FLEX study

The Dutch multidisciplinary guideline osteoporosis and fracture prevention, taking a local guideline to the international arena

BACKGROUND

In 2018, a grant was provided for an evidence-based guideline on osteoporosis and fracture prevention based on 10 clinically relevant questions.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary working group was formed with delegates from Dutch scientific and professional societies, including representatives from the patient's organization and the Dutch Institute for Medical Knowledge. The purpose was to obtain a broad consensus among all participating societies to facilitate the implementation of the updated guideline.

RESULTS

Novel recommendations in our guideline are as follows: - In patients with an indication for DXA of the lumbar spine and hips, there is also an indication for VFA. - Directly starting with anabolic drugs (teriparatide or romosozumab) in patients with a very high fracture risk; - Directly starting with zoledronic acid in patients 75 years and over with a hip fracture (independent of DXA); - Directly starting with parenteral drugs (denosumab, teriparatide, zoledronic acid) in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis with very high fracture risk; - A lifelong fracture risk management, including lifestyle, is indicated from the start of the first treatment.

CONCLUSION

In our new multidisciplinary guideline osteoporosis and fracture prevention, we developed 5 "relatively new statements" that are all a crucial step forward in the optimization of diagnosis and treatment for fracture prevention. We also developed 5 flowcharts, and we suppose that this may be helpful for individual doctors and their patients in daily practice and may facilitate implementation.

The Use of Bone-Turnover Markers in Asia-Pacific Populations

Bone-turnover marker (BTM) measurements in the blood or urine reflect the bone-remodeling rate and may be useful for studying and clinically managing metabolic bone diseases. Substantial evidence supporting the diagnostic use of BTMs has accumulated in recent years, together with the publication of several guidelines. Most clinical trials and observational and reference-interval studies have been performed in the Northern Hemisphere and have mainly involved Caucasian populations. This review focuses on the available data for populations from the Asia-Pacific region and offers guidance for using BTMs as diagnostic biomarkers in these populations. The procollagen I N-terminal propeptide and β-isomerized C-terminal telopeptide of type-I collagen (measured in plasma) are reference BTMs used for investigating osteoporosis in clinical settings. Premenopausal reference intervals (established for use with Asia-Pacific populations) and reference change values and treatment targets (used to monitor osteoporosis treatment) help guide the management of osteoporosis. Measuring BTMs that are not affected by renal failure, such as the bone-specific isoenzyme alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, may be advantageous for patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. Further studies of the use of BTMs in individuals with metabolic bone disease, coupled with the harmonization of commercial assays to provide equivalent results, will further enhance their clinical applications.

Follow-up Bone Mineral Density Testing: 2023 Official Positions of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the gold standard method for measuring bone mineral density (BMD) which is most strongly associated with fracture risk. BMD is therefore the basis for the World Health Organization's densitometric definition of osteoporosis. The International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) promotes best densitometry practices and its official positions reflect critical review of current evidence by domain experts. This document reports new official positions regarding follow-up DXA examinations based on a systematic review of literature published through December 2022. Adoption of official positions requires consensus agreement from an expert panel following a modified RAND protocol. Unless explicitly altered by the new position statements, prior ISCD official positions remain in force. This update reflects increased consideration of the clinical context prompting repeat examination. Follow-up DXA should be performed with pre-defined objectives when the results would have an impact on patient management. Testing intervals should be individualized according to the patient's age, sex, fracture risk and treatment history. Incident fractures and therapeutic approach are key considerations. Appropriately ordered and interpreted follow-up DXA examinations support diagnostic and therapeutic decision making, thereby contributing to excellent clinical care. Future research should address the complementary roles of clinical findings, imaging and laboratory testing to guide management.

Bisphosphonates and Atypical Femur Fractures: Is the Relationship Causal or Casual?

Bisphosphonates (BPs) are a time-tested drug class with multivariate use cases. They are used in pathologies ranging from osteoporosis to Paget's disease, and also help in accelerated fracture healing. They have been used to treat both benign and malignant lesions of the skeletal system since a long time. However, there have been reports of increased incidences of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs) in patients exhibiting chronic use of bisphosphonates in the past years. This has led to the widespread dissuasion of physicians and practitioners from using the drug class. By means of this review of the literature, the authors aim to investigate the relationship between BP use and its association with AFFs. The review focuses on and elucidates the basic pharmacology of BPs and goes on to illustrate the indications of BPs in various pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, further exploring the effects of BPs on the healing of various bony fractures. The authors also explore the incidences of other pathologies, such as osteonecrosis of the jaw and nephropathies associated with BP use, and elaborate on their features. Through this review, the authors have tried to educate and induce critical thinking on the part of clinicians and medical professionals in regard to prescribing BPs to patients that need them, by keeping in mind the risk-reward relationship that accompanies their use.

Current use of bone turnover markers in the management of osteoporosis

The adult bone is continuously being remodelled to repair microdamage, preserve bone strength and mechanical competence as well as maintain calcium homeostasis. Bone turnover markers are products of osteoblasts (bone formation markers) and osteoclasts (bone resorption markers) providing a dynamic assessment of remodelling (turnover). Resorption-specific bone turnover markers are typically degradation products of bone collagen molecules (N- [NTX] and C-telopeptide cross-linked type 1 collagen [CTX]), which are released into the circulation and excreted in urine; or enzymatic activities reflecting osteoclastic resorption, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase [TRACP]. Formation-specific bone turnover markers embrace different osteoblastic activities: type 1 collagen synthesis (Procollagen type I N- propeptide [PINP]), osteoblast enzymes (bone-specific alkaline phosphatase [BALP]), or bone matrix proteins [osteocalcin]. Among individuals not receiving osteoporosis treatment, resorption and formation markers are tightly linked and highly correlated (r= 0.6-0.8). Significant biological variability was reported in the past, but these issues have been greatly improved with automated assays and attention to pre-analytical and analytical factors that are known to influence bone turnover marker levels. Bone turnover markers are not useful in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, the individual prediction of bone loss, fracture, or rare complications, or in the selection of pharmacological treatment. Despite remaining issues with reference intervals and assays harmonization, bone turnover markers have proven to be useful in elucidating the pharmacodynamics and effectiveness of osteoporosis medications in clinical trials. As an alternative to BMD testing, BTMs may be useful to monitor osteoporosis therapies.

How to implement guidelines and models of care

In subjects older than 50 years, the presence of clinical risk factors (CRFs) for fractures or a recent fracture is the cornerstone for case finding. In patients who are clinically at high short- and long-term risk of fractures (those with a recent clinical fracture or with multiple CRFs), further assessment with bone mineral density (BMD) measurement using dual-energy absorptiometry (DXA), imaging of the spine, fall risk evaluation and laboratory examination contributes to treatment decisions according to the height and modifiability of fracture risk. Treatment is available with anti-resorptive and anabolic drugs, and from the start of treatment a lifelong strategy is needed to decide about continuous, intermittent, and sequential therapy. Implementation of guidelines requires further initiatives for improving case finding, public awareness about osteoporosis and national policies on reimbursement of assessment and therapy.

UK clinical guideline for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

The National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) has revised the UK guideline for the assessment and management of osteoporosis and the prevention of fragility fractures in postmenopausal women, and men age 50 years and older. Accredited by NICE, this guideline is relevant for all healthcare professionals involved in osteoporosis management.

INTRODUCTION

The UK National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) first produced a guideline on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in 2008, with updates in 2013 and 2017. This paper presents a major update of the guideline, the scope of which is to review the assessment and management of osteoporosis and the prevention of fragility fractures in postmenopausal women, and men age 50 years and older.

METHODS

Where available, systematic reviews, meta-analyses and randomised controlled trials were used to provide the evidence base. Conclusions and recommendations were systematically graded according to the strength of the available evidence.

RESULTS

Review of the evidence and recommendations are provided for the diagnosis of osteoporosis, fracture-risk assessment and intervention thresholds, management of vertebral fractures, non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments, including duration and monitoring of anti-resorptive therapy, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, and models of care for fracture prevention. Recommendations are made for training; service leads and commissioners of healthcare; and for review criteria for audit and quality improvement.

CONCLUSION

The guideline, which has received accreditation from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), provides a comprehensive overview of the assessment and management of osteoporosis for all healthcare professionals involved in its management. This position paper has been endorsed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation and by the European Society for the Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases.

Advances in bone turnover markers

Bone fragility fractures remain an important worldwide health and economic problem due to increased morbidity and mortality. The current methods for predicting fractures are largely based on the measurement of bone mineral density and the utilization of mathematical risk calculators based on clinical risk factors for bone fragility. Despite these approaches, many bone fractures remain undiagnosed. Therefore, current research is focused on the identification of new factors such as bone turnover markers (BTM) for risk calculation. BTM are a group of proteins and peptides released during bone remodeling that can be found in serum or urine. They derive from bone resorptive and formative processes mediated by osteoclasts and osteoblasts, respectively. Potential use of BTM in monitoring these phenomenon and therefore bone fracture risk is limited by physiologic and pathophysiologic factors that influence BTM. These limitations in predicting fractures explain why their inclusion in clinical guidelines remains limited despite the large number of studies examining BTM.

Romosozumab Followed by Antiresorptive Treatment Increases the Probability of Achieving Bone Mineral Density Treatment Goals

Increases in bone mineral density (BMD) with osteoporosis treatment are associated with reduced fracture risk. Increasing BMD is therefore a goal of osteoporosis therapy. Here, we compare the probability of achieving a T-score of > -2.5 over 3 years at the total hip (TH) or lumbar spine (LS) in women with osteoporosis, ≥55 years of age, after the following treatment sequences: 1 year romosozumab followed by 2 years denosumab (FRAME and FRAME extension trials), 1 year romosozumab followed by 2 years alendronate, or alendronate-only for 3 years (ARCH trial). Probabilities of attaining the BMD target within 1 year of treatment were also determined. At both skeletal sites, in women with a baseline Tscore ≥ -2.7, there was >50% probability of achieving the BMD target with any 3-year regimen. The probability of achieving the target BMD in those with a baseline TH Tscore equal to -3.0 was 61% with romosozumab/denosumab, 38% with romosozumab/alendronate, and 9% with alendronate. In those with a baseline LS Tscore equal to -3.0, the probability of achieving a T-score > -2.5 was 93% with romosozumab/denosumab, 81% with romosozumab/alendronate, and 55% with alendronate. With 1 year of treatment, in patients with a baseline TH T-score equal to -2.7, the probability of reaching the target Tscore with romosozumab was 71% to 78% and 38% with alendronate. For patients with an initial LS T-score equal to -3.0, the probability of achieving the target T-score over 1 year was 85% to 86% with romosozumab and 25% for alendronate. Our findings suggest baseline BMD and the probability of achieving BMD T-score goals are factors to consider when selecting initial treatment for patients with osteoporosis. As baseline T-score falls below -2.7 (TH) and -3.0 (LS), alendronate has <50% likelihood of achieving a BMD goal above osteoporosis range, whereas these probabilities remain relatively high for regimens beginning with romosozumab. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Dynamic Effects of the Third Generation Bisphosphonate of Risedronate on Rat Osteoporotic Fractures for Clinical Usage Guidance

OBJECTIVE

To better understand the risks of bisphosphonates in order to develop guidance for appropriate clinical usage, to compared femoral fracture healing at different time points and to explore the effects of Residronate on fracture healing.

METHODS

Osteoporosis model was achieved by ovariectomy surgery, followed by surgical incision of left femoral shaft 4 weeks after ovariectomy surgery. Three days after fracture surgery, risedronateor saline was fed by intragastric administration. X ray examination was used to check the callus formation, Bone Mineral Density (BMD), Bone Mineral Content (BMC), biomechanical, imaging and micromorphological of bone tissue as well as the trabecular bone parameters were all examined. The femoral pathology tissue of each rat was used to analyze trabecular bone parameters, including trabecular bone volume/tissue volume (Tb. BV/TV), bone surface to tissue volume ratio (BS/TV), trabecular bone mineral density (Tb. BMD), trabecular bone number (Tb. N), trabecular bone thickness (Tb. Th) and small bone Trabecular bone space (Tb. Sp).

RESULTS

Via X-ray and pathologically, risedronate treatment promoted the callus forming at the fracture site during the following 6 weeks after osteoporotic fracture by X-ray (P < 0.01), increased the local bone mineral density (P < 0.01), and accelerated the fracture healing during the first 3 weeks (P <0.01), but delayed facture healing in the later 3 weeks (P < 0.01). Risedronate increased the bone continuity of fracture at 7th week, but this phenomenon was not found at the 10th week (P < 0.01). Delayed fracture healing occurred locally at the fracture site. At 7th week, Risedronate may promote cartilage cells proliferating at fracture site, increase the dense of bone trabeculae and the connection of bone trabeculae, thicken the bone cortex showing better fracture healing than OPF-Saline groups (P < 0.01). However, these parameter did not continue during the 7th and 10th weeks. Comparing the first and the later 3 weeks, the rats in group Osteoporotic Fracture-Risedronate (OPF-RD) accelerated the local fracture healing in the first 3 weeks but not in the last 3 weeks, which is consistent for the BMD and BMC among each group (P < 0.05). Through evaluation of bone mineral density and bone mineral content, risedronate dramatically increased the BMD at the fracture site and resulted in reduction of BMC by risedronate at the fracture site (P < 0.05) among each group still exist, indicating dramatic (P < 0.05). Through load testing, Risedronate increased the structural strength and mechanical indexes of the new callus (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Risedronate can improve the structural strength and mechanical index of newborn callus. Longer than 7 weeks usage of third generation bisphosphonate of risedronate does not contribute to osteoporotic fracture.

Early changes in bone turnover and bone mineral density after discontinuation of long-term oral bisphosphonates: a post hoc analysis

This post hoc analysis of a randomized, double-blind study of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis found that there were early increases in bone turnover markers and decreases in bone mineral density after discontinuation of long-term alendronate. These findings might help guide treatment decisions, including monitoring after alendronate withdrawal.

INTRODUCTION

The short-term effects of discontinuing long-term bisphosphonates are poorly characterized. This post hoc analysis investigated 1-12-month changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTM) after alendronate (ALN) discontinuation.

METHODS

Data were from a randomized, double-blind trial of MK-5442 (calcium-sensing receptor antagonist) following oral bisphosphonates, with placebo and continued ALN controls ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00996801). Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis had received oral bisphosphonate (≥ 3-4 preceding years; ALN for the 12 months pre-screening), continuing on ALN 70 mg/week (n = 87) or placebo (n = 88).

RESULTS

At 12 months, least-squares mean percent changes from baseline BMD (placebo vs. ALN) were lumbar spine (LS): - 0.36 vs. 1.29, total hip: - 1.44 vs. 0.46, and femoral neck (FN): - 1.26 vs. - 0.08 (all P < 0.05). BTM levels increased by 1-3 months, to 12 months, with placebo vs. ALN (P < 0.001). FN BMD decline was greater in the placebo subgroup with higher urinary N-terminal cross-linked telopeptides of type I collagen/creatinine [uNTx/Cr] (P < 0.01), and higher serum N-terminal pro-peptide of type 1 collagen [P1NP] levels (P < 0.05), at baseline. There was a trend toward greater FN BMD loss with higher BTM levels at 3 and/or 6 months. Younger age and higher LS BMD at baseline were associated with greater LS BMD loss at 12 months (P = 0.04 and < 0.01, respectively); higher baseline FN BMD predicted greater FN BMD loss (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Early changes in BTM levels and BMD were observed after discontinuation of long-term ALN. Further characterization of factors associated with patients' risk of bone loss upon bisphosphonate discontinuation is warranted.

Bone densitometry categories as a salient distracting feature in the modern clinical pathways of osteoporosis care: A retrospective 20-year cohort study

BACKGROUND

It is unknown as to what factors typically drive osteoporosis therapy decisions in real-world practice.

METHODS

Retrospective, 20-year cohort study within the government health system of Manitoba including all women having bone densitometry (BMD) tests between 1996 and 2017. Osteoporosis prescription data was linked to registry data on fractures, clinical risk factors and BMD tests. We defined 6 possible treatment decisions by prescription data: no treatment, starting, stopping, continuing, drug hiatus and re-starting. For each decision, we tested the association between salient patient factors (age, glucocorticoid use, recent fracture, BMD hip or spine T-score ≤ -2.5, FRAX major osteoporotic fracture probability ≥20%) using multivariable logistic regression. The factors were rank-ordered by decreasing Wald χ² statistic to determine the relative importance.

RESULTS

There were 64,181 women, 33.8% of whom started osteoporosis therapy. For patients who begin therapy after a first BMD, the rank-ordered multivariable logistic regression factor most strongly associated was the T-score ≤ -2.5 [OR of 7.59(95%CI 7.19-8.01, p < 0.001)]. This was followed by glucocorticoid use [OR 2.89(95%CI 2.59-3.22, p < 0.001)]. Increasing age and recent fracture (within 2 years) were weak predictors of therapy and high FRAX score associated with reduced odds of therapy [OR 0.80 (95%CI 0.74-0.88, p < 0.001)]. T-scores were the strongest factor predicting therapy stop/continuation/re-starting; age and prior fracture had weak or no associations.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite recommendations for fracture-risk-based approach to osteoporosis therapy, BMD T-score continues to be the dominant factor in actual practice. Age, prior fracture or global fracture risk are much less associated; it is possible that BMD T-score categories are therefore acting as a clinically salient distracting factor.

Bisphosphonate Drug Holidays in Primary Care: When and What to Do Next?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review describes the rational for bisphosphonate holidays, summaries key evidence to support the concept, and provides a roadmap to help clinicians initiate, monitor, and discontinue a bisphosphonate drug holiday.

RECENT FINDINGS

Randomized trials and data from large observational studies are available to determine the short and long-term bisphosphonate benefits (prevention of fracture) and harms (principally atypical femoral fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw). Mounting evidence points towards a causal relationship between bisphosphonate use and AFF and ONJ, particularly with > 5 years of use. Multiple studies now confirm the risk of AFF falls rapidly after BPs are discontinued. Osteoporosis patients without previous hip, vertebral, or multiple non-spine fractures who are successfully treated with oral bisphosphonates for 5 years (3 years if intravenous), should be offered a 3-5 year drug holiday, particularly if hip BMD T-score is > - 2.5. Bisphosphonates should only be continued beyond 10 years (6 years if parenteral) in patients at very high risk of fracture.

Vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) for osteoporosis screening in US postmenopausal women: is it cost-effective?

Vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) is cost-effective when it was incorporated in the routine screening for osteoporosis in community-dwelling women aged ≥ 65 years, which support guidelines, such as the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) for the diagnostic use of VFA as an important addition to fracture risk assessment.

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of VFA as a screening tool to reduce future fracture risk in US community-dwelling women aged ≥ 65 years.

METHODS

An individual-level state-transition cost-effectiveness model from a healthcare perspective was constructed using derived data from published literature. The time horizon was lifetime. Five screening strategies were compared, including no screening at all, central dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) only, VFA only, central DXA followed by VFA if the femoral neck T-score (FN-T) ≤ - 1.5, or if the FN-T ≤ - 1.0. Various initiation ages and rescreening intervals were evaluated. Oral bisphosphonate treatment for 5-year periods was assumed. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (2017 US dollars per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained) were used as the outcome measure.

RESULTS

The incorporation of VFA slightly increased life expectancy by 0.1 years and reduced the number of subsequent osteoporotic fractures by 3.7% and 7.7% compared with using DXA alone and no screening, respectively, leading to approximately 30 billion dollars saved. Regardless of initiation ages and rescreening intervals, central DXA followed by VFA if the FN-T ≤ - 1.0 was most cost-effective ($40,792 per QALY when the screening is initiated at age 65 years and with rescreening every 5 years). Results were robust to change in VF incidence and medication costs.

CONCLUSION

In women aged ≥ 65 years, VFA is cost-effective when it was incorporated in routine screening for osteoporosis. Our findings support the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) guidelines for the diagnostic use of VFA as an important addition to fracture risk assessment.

Risk of spontaneous vertebral fracture during bisphosphonates drug holiday

Background

Bisphosphonates are the most common treatment for osteoporosis with confirmed efficacy. However, less information is available on prolonged use. This study was performed to examine the risk of osteoporotic vertebral fractures during bisphosphonates holiday and estimate its predictors.

Results

Forty-two patients completed 2-year fracture-free holiday; 7 had spontaneous vertebral fracture. Among baseline characteristics, age was significantly higher in fracture group (69.99 ± 3.62 vs. 75.37 ± 3.81; P value 0.007); other factors were comparable. Longitudinal changes analysis showed that only alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increment had significant group over time interaction (P value 0.002). The difference between baseline and clinical end-point serum collagen type 1 cross-linked C-telopeptid (CTX) was significant in both fracture and non-fracture groups, whereas femoral neck and total hip BMD decline was significant in fracture group only. Multivariate analysis showed that only age (OR, 1.43; p, 0.011) and history of previous fractures (OR, 13.59; p, 0.044) are significant predictors of vertebral fractures.

Conclusions

These results suggest that older age and history of previous fracture should be considered as risk factors for vertebral fractures during bisphosphonates holiday. Furthermore, femoral neck and total hip BMD decline could be related to vertebral fractures. By the same token, overt increase of ALP and CTX could be an indicator of fracture occurrence.

Bisphosphonate drug holidays: Risk of fractures and mortality in a prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

This study examined osteoporotic fractures and mortality in patients pretreated with bisphosphonates (BPs) during BP holidays and ongoing BP use.

METHODS

Interview-based prospective observational study in a cohort of 1973 patients with BP treatment for at least 80% of the total time of the preceding 4 years. Patients were recruited from 146 primarily endocrinological, orthopedic and rheumatological practices and clinics across Germany between May 2013 and June 2015. Outcomes were analyzed by Cox proportional hazards regression in relation to treatment status at the time of the first interview (model 1) or using time-dependent treatment variables (model 2). Temporal changes in fracture risk during BP holidays were evaluated by comparisons among 3 incremental levels of simple moving averages of BP treatment during the preceding 12 months (BP-SMA levels 0%, >0% to <50%, and ≥50%).

RESULTS

For an observation period of up to 25 months, the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) in model 1 for BP holidays compared to ongoing BP use were 0.87 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59-1.28) for major osteoporotic fractures (MOFs), 0.95 (95% CI 0.70-1.28) for any clinical osteoporotic fracture, 0.96 (95% CI 0.55-1.68) for clinical vertebral fractures, and 0.86 (95% CI 0.50-1.48) for mortality. The risk of MOFs was higher for the BP-SMA level 0%, corresponding to a time >12 months since the start of a BP holiday, than for the BP-SMA level >0% to <50%, corresponding mainly to a time >6 to ≤12 months since the start of a BP holiday (adjusted HR 2.28, 95% CI 1.07-4.86). We found an interaction between prevalent vertebral fractures (PVFs) and BP-SMA-related time to first MOF for BP-SMA as a continuous variable (p for interaction 0.046 in the adjusted model). The adjusted HR for MOFs for the BP-SMA level 0% compared to the BP-SMA level >0% to <50% was 3.53 (95% CI 1.19-10.51) with a PVF but was 1.44 (95% CI 0.49-4.22) without a PVF.

CONCLUSIONS

Fracture risk and mortality in patients with preceding BP treatment did not significantly differ between BP holidays and ongoing BP use for an observation period up to 25 months when outcomes were analyzed in relation to treatment at the time of the first interview. However, in the presence of a PVF, the risk of MOFs was higher for a BP-SMA level corresponding to a time >12 months since the start of a BP holiday than for a BP-SMA level corresponding mainly to a time >6 to ≤12 months since the start of a BP holiday. The presence of a PVF may increase the relative risk of MOFs associated with a longer BP holiday.

History of alendronate

Alendronate was synthesized in 1970s in a search for inhibitors of calcification. Istituto Gentili investigators identified it as a potent inhibitor of bone resorption and obtained a patent covering its use in the treatment of osteoporosis and other disorders of excessive bone resorption in the 1980s. Merck licensed alendronate in 1988 and its pharmaceutical chemists reformulated it as a sodium salt with good solubility in a tablet that reduced its potential for esophageal irritation. Clinical trials proved that it reduced bone turnover, increased BMD and reduced the risk of vertebral fractures in postmenopausal osteoporotic women. Merck sponsored a large clinical trials that won FDA approval for treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and showed that it reduced the risk of spine and hip fractures. Its approval in the US in 1995 spurred sales of bone densitometers and BMD testing to screen for low bone mineral density and identify osteoporosis. Bone mass measurement was supported by medical society guidelines and reimbursement by Medicare and other insurers in the USA. A 70 mg weekly instead of 10 mg daily dose of alendronate produced the same effect on BMD and biochemical markers of bone remodelling with greater convenience and reduced potential for upper GI adverse events. Consequently, by 2006, about 30 million prescriptions for alendronate were written annually in the U.S. for about 15% of postmenopausal women in the U.S. Thereafter, publicity about rare but concerning atypical femoral fractures (AFF) and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) along with the expiry of Merck's patent (in 2008) and cessation of their promotion of alendronate, and a decline in use of densitometry led to a steady slide in its use even among patients for whom the benefits of alendronate far outweigh its potential risks. Nevertheless, in 25 years since its regulatory approval, alendronate has undoubtedly prevented millions of fractures world-wide.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGISTS/AMERICAN COLLEGE OF ENDOCRINOLOGY CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS-2020 UPDATE

Objective: The development of these guidelines is sponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) Board of Directors and American College of Endocrinology (ACE) Board of Trustees and adheres with published AACE protocols for the standardized production of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs). Methods: Recommendations are based on diligent reviews of the clinical evidence with transparent incorporation of subjective factors, according to established AACE/ACE guidelines for guidelines protocols. Results: The Executive Summary of this 2020 updated guideline contains 52 recommendations: 21 Grade A (40%), 24 Grade B (46%), 7 Grade C (14%), and no Grade D (0%). These detailed, evidence-based recommendations allow for nuance-based clinical decision-making that addresses multiple aspects of real-world care of patients. The evidence base presented in the subsequent Appendix provides relevant supporting information for the Executive Summary recommendations. This update contains 368 citations: 123 (33.5%) evidence level (EL) 1 (highest), 132 (36%) EL 2 (intermediate), 20 (5.5%) EL 3 (weak), and 93 (25%) EL 4 (lowest). New or updated topics in this CPG include: clarification of the diagnosis of osteoporosis, stratification of the patient according to high-risk and very-high-risk features, a new dual-action therapy option, and transitions from therapeutic options. Conclusion: This guideline is a practical tool for endocrinologists, physicians in general, regulatory bodies, health-related organizations, and interested laypersons regarding the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of post-menopausal osteoporosis. Abbreviations: 25(OH)D = 25-hydroxyvitamin D; AACE = American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists; ACE = American College of Endocrinology; AFF = atypical femoral fracture; ASBMR = American Society for Bone and Mineral Research; BEL = best evidence level; BMD = bone mineral density; BTM = bone turnover marker; CI = confidence interval; CPG = clinical practice guideline; CTX = C-terminal telopeptide type-I collagen; DXA = dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; EL = evidence level; FDA = U.S. Food and Drug Administration; FRAX® = Fracture Risk Assessment Tool; GI = gastrointestinal; HORIZON = Health Outcomes and Reduced Incidence with Zoledronic acid ONce yearly Pivotal Fracture Trial (zoledronic acid and zoledronate are equivalent terms); ISCD = International Society for Clinical Densitometry; IU = international units; IV = intravenous; LSC = least significant change; NOF = National Osteoporosis Foundation; ONJ = osteonecrosis of the jaw; PINP = serum amino-terminal propeptide of type-I collagen; PTH = parathyroid hormone; R = recommendation; ROI = region of interest; RR = relative risk; SD = standard deviation; TBS = trabecular bone score; VFA = vertebral fracture assessment; WHO = World Health Organization.

Duration of Bisphosphonate Drug Holidays and Associated Fracture Risk

BACKGROUND

Discontinuation of bisphosphonates (BP) or a "drug holiday" after several years of treatment is increasingly common. However, the association of drug holiday duration with future fracture risk is unclear.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the rate of fracture in relation to various lengths of drug holidays among women receiving long-term BP therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Observational cohort study using US Medicare data 2006-2016. Incidence rates (IRs) and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the rate and adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) controlling for potential confounders.

SUBJECTS

Women aged 65 years and above enrolled in fee-for-service Medicare who had been adherent (≥80%) to alendronate, risedronate, or zoledronate for ≥3 years.

MEASURES

Hip, humerus, distal forearm, and clinical vertebral fracture.

RESULTS

Among 81,427 eligible women observed for a median (interquartile range) of 4.0 (2.5, 5.3) years, 28% of women underwent a drug holiday. In the alendronate cohort (73% overall), the IR of hip fracture among women who discontinued BP for >2 years was 13.2 per 1000 person-years. Risk was increased (aHR=1.3, 1.1-1.4) versus continuing therapy (IR=8.8, referent). Rates were elevated for humerus fracture with discontinuation >2 years (aHR=1.3, 1.1-1.66) and for clinical vertebral fracture with discontinuation >2 years (aHR=1.2, 1.1-1.4). Results were similar for risedronate, zoledronate, and ibandronate for hip and clinical vertebral fracture.

CONCLUSION

Discontinuing alendronate beyond 2 years was associated with increased risk of hip, humerus, and clinical vertebral fractures.

Overview of treatment approaches to osteoporosis

Efficient therapies are available for the treatment of osteoporosis. Anti-resorptive therapies, including bisphosphonates and denosumab, increase bone mineral density (BMD) and reduce the risk of fractures by 20-70%. Bone-forming or dual-action treatments stimulate bone formation and increase BMD more than the anti-resorptive therapies. Two studies have demonstrated that these treatments are superior to anti-resorptives in preventing fractures in patients with severe osteoporosis. Bone-forming or dual-action treatments should be followed by anti-resorptive treatment to maintain the fracture risk reduction. The BMD gains seen with bone-forming and dual-action treatments are greater in treatment-naïve patients compared to patients pretreated with anti-resorptive treatments. However, the antifracture efficacy seems to be preserved. Treatment failure will often lead to switch of treatment from orally to parentally administrated anti-resorptives treatment or from anti-resorptive to bone-forming or dual-action treatment. Osteoporosis is a chronic condition and therefore needs a long-term management plan with a personalized approach to treatment. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on The molecular pharmacology of bone and cancer-related bone diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.9/issuetoc.

Fracture risk following intermission of osteoporosis therapy

Given the widespread practice of recommending drug holidays, we reviewed the impact of medication discontinuation of two common anti-osteoporosis therapies (bisphosphonates and denosumab). Trial evidence suggests the risk of new clinical fractures, and vertebral fracture increases when osteoporosis treatment with bisphosphonates or denosumab is stopped.

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this paper was to review the available literature to assess what evidence exists to inform clinical decision-making with regard to drug holidays following treatment with bisphosphonates (BiP) or denosumab.

METHODS

Systematic review.

RESULTS

Differing pharmacokinetics lead to varying outcomes on stopping therapy. Prospective and retrospective analyses report that the risk of new clinical fractures was 20-40% higher in subjects who stopped BiP treatment, and vertebral fracture risk was approximately doubled. Rapid bone loss has been well described following denosumab discontinuation with an incidence of multiple vertebral fractures around 5%. Studies have not identified risk factors for fracture after stopping treatment other than those that provide an indication for treatment (e.g. prior fracture and low BMD). Studies that considered long-term continuation did not identify increased fracture risk, and reported only very low rates of adverse skeletal events such as atypical femoral fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

The view that patients on long-term treatment with bisphosphonates or denosumab should always be offered a drug holiday is not supported by the existing evidence. Different pharmacokinetic properties for different therapies require different strategies to manage drug intermission. In contrast, long-term treatment with anti-resorptives is not associated with increased risk of fragility fractures and skeletal adverse events remain rare.

Comparison of BMD Changes and Bone Formation Marker Levels 3 Years After Bisphosphonate Discontinuation: FLEX and HORIZON-PFT Extension I Trials

An ASBMR Task Force recommends a drug holiday for certain women treated for ≥5 years with oral alendronate or ≥3 years with intravenous zoledronic acid, with reassessment 2 to 3 years later. It is not known whether changes in bone mineral density (BMD) or bone turnover markers differ after oral or intravenous therapy. Our goal was to compare changes in BMD and procollagen type I N propeptide (PINP) after oral or intravenous bisphosphonate use. In the Fracture Intervention Trial Long-term Extension (FLEX), women who received a mean 5 years of alendronate were randomized to placebo or continued treatment. In the Health Outcomes and Reduced Incidence with Zoledronic Acid Once Yearly-Pivotal Fracture Trial Extension I (HORIZON-PFT E1), women who received 3 years of zoledronic acid were randomized to placebo or continued treatment. We examined the proportion of participants with BMD loss or PINP gain ≥ least significant change (LSC) and those whose values exceeded a threshold (T-score ≤-2.5 or PINP ≥36.0 ng/mL, a premenopausal median value). After 3 years of placebo, the FLEX group had greater mean total hip BMD decreases (-2.3% versus -1.2% in the HORIZON-PFT E1 group, p < 0.01) and greater rises in PINP (+11.6 ng/mL versus +6.7 ng/mL, p < 0.01). There was a greater proportion of individuals in FLEX with total hip BMD loss and PINP increases that exceeded LSC, and PINP values ≥36.0 ng/mL. In contrast, there were small changes in the proportion of women with femoral neck T-scores ≤-2.5 in both groups. In conclusion, 3 years after bisphosphonate discontinuation, a considerable proportion of former alendronate and zoledronic acid users had meaningful declines in total hip BMD and elevations in PINP. Despite a longer treatment course, alendronate may have a more rapid offset of drug effect than zoledronic acid. © 2018 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGISTS AND AMERICAN COLLEGE OF ENDOCRINOLOGY CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF POSTMENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS - 2016

ABBREVIATIONS

AACE = American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists AFF = atypical femur fracture ASBMR = American Society for Bone and Mineral Research BEL = best evidence level BMD = bone mineral density BTM = bone turnover marker CBC = complete blood count CI = confidence interval DXA = dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry EL = evidence level FDA = U.S. Food and Drug Administration FLEX = Fracture Intervention Trial (FIT) Long-term Extension FRAX_® = Fracture Risk Assessment Tool GFR = glomerular filtration rate GI = gastrointestinal HORIZON = Health Outcomes and Reduced Incidence with Zoledronic Acid Once Yearly IOF = International Osteoporosis Foundation ISCD = International Society for Clinical Densitometry IU = international units IV = intravenous LSC = least significant change NBHA = National Bone Health Alliance NOF = National Osteoporosis Foundation 25(OH)D = 25-hydroxy vitamin D ONJ = osteonecrosis of the jaw PINP = serum carboxy-terminal propeptide of type I collagen PTH = parathyroid hormone R = recommendation RANK = receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B RANKL = receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand RCT = randomized controlled trial RR = relative risk S-CTX = serum C-terminal telopeptide SQ = subcutaneous VFA = vertebral fracture assessment WHO = World Health Organization.

Treatment of Osteoporosis, with a Focus on 2 Monoclonal Antibodies

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease characterized by bone loss and subsequent increased risk of fragility fractures. Recent advances in our mechanistic understanding of molecular communications among osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes give insight into the important roles of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway in the process of bone remodeling. Due to the translation of the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the RANK/RANKL/OPG pathway in the regulation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, new targets have been studied in recent years, such as sclerostin and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). In this review, we first introduce the signaling pathways involved in interactions among osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes. Next, we describe clinical trials of denosumab and romosozumab, which are monoclonal antibodies that target RANKL and sclerostin, respectively. We analyze the efficacy of these drugs and provide a profile for the management of osteoporosis.

Use of bone turnover markers in the management of osteoporosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Osteoporosis is a common public health problem that is often undertreated and underdiagnosed. The clinical management of osteoporosis is often reactionary to devastating fracture events. Bone turnover markers may improve the ease and rapidity at which osteoporosis is monitored and treated. Bone turnover markers are biochemical byproducts of bone formation or bone resorption. The clinical use of bone turnover markers is limited by significant preanalytical variability. Effective interpretation of bone turnover markers requires a detailed understanding of the variables that can affect their responses to osteoporosis treatment and monitoring.

RECENT FINDINGS

Progress is continuously being made on the standardization of bone turnover markers. The literature on the response of bone turnover markers to unique clinical situations is expanding. Data for evidence-based reference intervals for bone turnover markers has increased. Variables that affect the appropriate timing of lab draws like diurnal variation, postprandial status, exercise and alcohol use have been described. Studies examining the expected response of bone turnover markers to treatments of osteoporosis and other medications that affect bone health continue to increase.

SUMMARY

Bone turnover markers have clinical utility in the comprehensive evaluation of osteoporosis. When interpreted with caution and with a good understanding of their natural variability, bone turnover markers provide information that supplements osteoporosis management and provides useful clinical information about conditions that alter bone turnover.

Regulatory actions of 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate on osteoclast function: possible roles of Epac-mediated signaling

Alterations in cellular levels of the second messenger 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate ([cAMP]_i ) regulate a wide range of physiologically important cellular signaling processes in numerous cell types. Osteoclasts are terminally differentiated, multinucleated cells specialized for bone resorption. Their systemic regulator, calcitonin, triggers morphometrically and pharmacologically distinct retraction (R) and quiescence (Q) effects on cell-spread area and protrusion-retraction motility, respectively, paralleling its inhibition of bone resorption. Q effects were reproduced by cholera toxin-mediated G_s -protein activation known to increase [cAMP]_i , unaccompanied by the [Ca²⁺ ]_i changes contrastingly associated with R effects. We explore a hypothesis implicating cAMP signaling involving guanine nucleotide-exchange activation of the small GTPase Ras-proximate-1 (Rap1) by exchange proteins directly activated by cAMP (Epac). Rap1 activates integrin clustering, cell adhesion to bone matrix, associated cytoskeletal modifications and signaling processes, and transmembrane transduction functions. Epac activation enhanced, whereas Epac inhibition or shRNA-mediated knockdown compromised, the appearance of markers for osteoclast differentiation and motility following stimulation by receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL). Deficiencies in talin and Rap1 compromised in vivo bone resorption, producing osteopetrotic phenotypes in genetically modified murine models. Translational implications of an Epac-Rap1 signaling hypothesis in relationship to N-bisphosphonate actions on prenylation and membrane localization of small GTPases are discussed.

Bone turnover: Biology and assessment tools

Bone turnover includes two processes: resorption (removal of old bone) and formation (laying down of new bone). N-terminal propeptide of type I procollagen (PINP) and C-telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-I) are markers of bone formation and resorption, respectively, that the International Osteoporosis Foundation and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry recommend for clinical use. Bone turnover markers (BTM) are subject to sources of variability, including feeding (lower resorption) and recent fracture (increased levels of all markers). Controllable patient-related factors should be adapted as much as possible (eg blood collection after an overnight fast) to minimize pre-analytical variability. Uncontrollable factors should be considered in the interpretation of the BTM measurements. BTM do not improve prediction of bone loss or fracture within an individual. In osteoporotic patients, BTM may help to assess the response to anabolic and antiresorptive therapies, to assess compliance to the treatment, or to indicate possible secondary causes of osteoporosis. BTM reflect changes in bone metabolism induced by anti-osteoporotic treatment. Anti-resorptive drugs induce a rapid dose-dependent decrease in bone resorption, whereas bone formation stimulating medications increase the levels of bone formations markers. BTM may be used for monitoring anti-osteoporosis therapy. The expected effect during the anti-resorptive therapy is to decrease the PINP by at least 10 ng/mL and to attain the target level of less than 35 ng/mL. The expected effect during the bone formation-stimulating therapy is to increase the PINP by at least 10 ng/mL and to attain the target level of more than 69 ng/mL.

Efficacy of discontinuing risedronate for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective study

Objective The objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of discontinuation of risedronate for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treated with glucocorticoid (GC). Methods The participants were patients with SLE treated with prednisolone (PSL) ≥ 2 mg/day and risedronate for at least three years. Lumbar spine and total hip bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were taken at baseline and 24 and 48 weeks after discontinuation of risedronate, and bone turnover markers were evaluated at baseline, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks. Results A total of 36 patients were enrolled, 25 of whom discontinued risedronate. The mean age was 46.8 ± 11.2 years, and 23 were female. The mean duration of GC treatment was 14.8 ± 11.4 years, the mean dose of PSL was 7.8 ± 3.9 mg/day, and the mean duration of risedronate was 5.8 ± 2.4 years. Seventeen patients showed decreased lumbar spine BMD at 48 weeks after discontinuation of risedronate, with a mean lumbar spine lumbar decrease of 1.42% ± 3.20% ( p = 0.034); 17 patients (71%) showed a decreased total hip BMD at 48 weeks after discontinuation of risedronate, with a mean total hip BMD decrease of 0.99% ± 2.10% ( p = 0.021). Serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b) ≥ 309 mU/dl at baseline was a risk factor for decreased total hip BMD at 48 weeks compared with serum TRACP-5b < 309 mU/dl (56% vs 0%, p = 0.0098). One patient developed a clinical fracture of the lumbar spine at 20 weeks. Conclusions Discontinuation of risedronate treatment in patients with SLE who had received GC therapy led to decreases in lumbar spine and total hip BMD, particularly in patients with high baseline serum TRACP-5b levels.

A Review of Osteoporosis in the Older Adult: An Update

Osteoporosis in the elderly population is common. It results in more than 1.5 million fractures per year in the United States. The goal of managing osteoporosis is to prevent fractures. In men, osteoporosis is underrecognized and undertreated. More men than women die every year as a consequence of hip fractures. Bisphosphonates are the first-line treatment of men and women. In the past several years, advances in bone biology have resulted in major therapeutic advances. A review of diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis is described.

How Would You Manage This Patient With Osteoporosis?: Grand Rounds Discussion From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone strength that increases the risk for fracture. Approximately 10 million men and women in the United States have osteoporosis, and more than 2 million osteoporosis-related fractures occur annually. In 2016, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists issued the "Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis," and in 2017, the American College of Physicians issued the guideline "Treatment of Low Bone Density or Osteoporosis to Prevent Fracture in Men and Women." Both guidelines agree that patients diagnosed with osteoporosis should be treated with an antiresorptive agent, such as alendronate, that has been shown to reduce hip and vertebral fractures. However, there is no consensus on how long patients with osteoporosis should be treated and whether bone density should be monitored during and after the treatment period. In this Beyond the Guidelines, 2 experts discuss management of osteoporosis in general and for a specific patient, the role of bone density monitoring during and after a 5-year course of alendronate, and treatment recommendations for a patient whose bone density decreases during or after a 5-year course of alendronate.

Influence on the bone mineral density and bone metabolism marker after the interruption and reinitiation of monthly minodronate therapy in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influences of interruption and reinitiation of monthly minodronate therapy on the bone mineral density (BMD) and bone metabolism markers in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

METHODS

Study patients were included if they had been administered monthly minodronate therapy for ≥6 months, interrupted the therapy, and reinitiated the therapy for ≥12 months. The BMD and bone metabolism markers were assessed at 4 time points: initiation, interruption, reinitiation and 1 year after reinitiation of therapy.

RESULTS

A total of 23 patients were enrolled. The mean monthly minodronate treatment period was 23.8 ± 12.9 months following a mean interruption period of 11.9 ± 5.4 months. Once increased by monthly minodronate treatment for 2 years on average, the BMD of lumbar spine and radius did not significantly decrease even after an interruption for 1 year on average. However, the BMD of the femoral neck did decrease after interruption. The BMD of the lumbar spine and radius increased further after 1 year of monthly minodronate retreatment. The BMD of the femoral neck did not change. Once decreased after the treatment for an average of 2 years followed by an interruption for 1 year, bone metabolism markers increased gradually but did not recover to baseline levels. A potent suppressive effect on bone resorption was noted. The change rate was greater for the bone formation marker procollagen 1 N-terminal propeptide.

CONCLUSIONS

Monthly minodronate treatment increases BMD and reduces bone metabolism markers. The effect lessens after treatment interruptions, and can be restored by retreatment.

Effects of discontinuing oral bisphosphonate treatments for postmenopausal osteoporosis on bone turnover markers and bone density

The antiresorptive potency varies between different bisphosphonates. We investigated the effect of stopping oral bisphosphonate treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis (ibandronate, alendronate, risedronate) on BTMs and BMD. After stopping treatment, all three groups showed an increase in BTMs and a decrease in hip BMD; however, none returned to pre-treatment baseline values.

INTRODUCTION

Bisphosphonates (BPs) continue to suppress bone turnover markers (BTMs) after treatment has stopped, leading to the suggestion that a pause in treatment could be considered for low-risk patients. Indirect comparisons suggest that after cessation of treatment, the effects on bone may differ between drugs. We investigated the effects of stopping oral BP treatments for postmenopausal osteoporosis on BTMs and bone mineral density (BMD).

METHODS

We studied postmenopausal osteoporotic women who had previously taken part in a 2-year randomised study of three oral BPs (ibandronate, alendronate, or risedronate). At the end of the study, women with hip BMD T-score > - 2.5 and considered clinically appropriate to discontinue treatment were invited to participate in a further 2-year observational study. Biochemical response was assessed using BTMs, and BMD was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

RESULTS

All BTMs increased after treatment withdrawal but remained below the pre-treatment baseline with less suppression of BTMs for the risedronate group compared to alendronate and ibandronate up to 48 weeks. There was no difference between the BP groups 96 weeks after stopping treatment. The change in BMD during the 96 weeks after stopping treatment was - 1.6% (95% CI - 1.9 to - 1.2, P < 0.001) for the total hip and - 0.6% (95% CI - 1.1 to - 0.2, P = 0.17) at the lumbar spine with no difference between the three BP groups (P = 0.85 and P = 0.48, respectively).

CONCLUSION

For all treatment groups, there was an increase in BTMs and a decrease in hip BMD after stopping BPs for 2 years; however, none returned to pre-treatment baseline values.

Bisphosphonate guidelines for treatment and prevention of myeloma bone disease

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a haematological malignancy characterised by the clonal proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow. More than 80% of patients with MM display evidence of myeloma bone disease (MBD), characterised by the formation of osteolytic lesions throughout the axial and appendicular skeleton. MBD significantly increases the risk of skeletal-related events such as pathologic fracture, spinal cord compression and hypercalcaemia. MBD is the result of MM plasma cells-mediated activation of osteoclast activity and suppression of osteoblast activity. Bisphosphonates (BP), pyrophosphate analogues with high bone affinity, are the only pharmacological agents currently recommended for the treatment and prevention of MBD and remain the standard of care. Pamidronate and zoledronic acid are the most commonly used BP to treat MBD. Although generally safe, frequent high doses of BP are associated with adverse events such as renal toxicity and osteonecrosis of the jaw. As such, optimal duration and dosing of BP therapy is required in order to minimise BP-associated adverse events. The following guidelines provide currently available evidence for the adoption of a tailored approach when using BP for the management of MBD.

2018 update of French recommendations on the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis

OBJECTIVES

To update the 2012 recommendations on pharmacotherapy for postmenopausal osteoporosis, under the aegis of the Bone Task Force of the French Society for Rheumatology (SFR) and of the Osteoporosis Research and Information Group (GRIO), in collaboration with scientific societies (Collège national des généralistes enseignants, Collège national des gynécologues et obstétriciens français, Fédération nationale des collèges de gynécologie médicale, Groupe d'étude de la ménopause et du vieillissement hormonal, Société française de chirurgie orthopédique, Société française d'endocrinologie, and Société française de gériatrie et de gérontologie).

METHODS

Updated recommendations were developed by a task force whose members represented the medical specialties involved in the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis. The update was based on a literature review and developed using the method advocated by the French National Authority for Health (HAS).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The updated recommendations place strong emphasis on the treatment of women with severe fractures, in whom the use of osteoporosis medications is recommended. All the available osteoporosis medications are suitable in patients with severe fractures; zoledronic acid deserves preference as the fist-line drug after a hip fracture. In patients with or without non-severe fractures, the decision to use osteoporosis medications is based on bone mineral density values and in challenging cases, on probabilities supplied by prediction tools such as FRAX^®. All osteoporosis medications are suitable; raloxifene should be reserved for patients at low risk for peripheral fractures. The fracture risk should be reevaluated every 2 to 3 years to decide on the best follow-up treatment. These updated recommendations discuss the selection of first-line osteoporosis medications and treatment sequences.

The increase in bone mineral density by bisphosphonate with active vitamin D analog is associated with the serum calcium level within the reference interval in postmenopausal osteoporosis

OBJECTIVES

To examine the factors associated with increase in lumbar spine bone mineral density (LS-BMD) by bisphosphonates (BPs) with active vitamin D analog (aVD).

METHODS

Two independent postmenopausal osteoporotic patients treated by BPs with aVD for 24 months (Study 1: n = 93, Study 2: n = 99) were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

In Study 1, LS-BMD of the patients significantly increased for 24 m (5.4%, p < .001). A multiple regression analysis among baseline characteristics revealed that serum calcium (sCa: 8.5-10.5 mg/dL) was associated with an increased LS-BMD by treatment (r²: 0.088, p = .02). While average sCa of the patients was 9.2 mg/dL before treatment, it increased time-dependently to 9.6 mg/dL for 24 m by treatment. As each patient had their LS-BMD five times during the study, there were four instances of %LS-BMD in each patient, resulting in 372 instances of %LS-BMD in Study 1. The smallest Akaike's information criterion value for the most appropriate cut-off levels of sCa for %LS-BMD by treatment every 6 m was 9.3 mg/dL. The %LS-BMD by treatment for 6 m during 24 m period in patients with sCa ≥9.3 mg/dL (1.5%) was significantly higher than that in patients with sCa <9.3 mg/dL (0.8%, p = .038). The results of Study 2 were similar to those of Study 1, confirming the phenomena observed.

CONCLUSION

sCa was associated with an increased LS-BMD by BPs with aVD.

Osteoporosis: A Review of Treatment Options

Approximately 10 million men and women in the U.S. have osteoporosis,1 a metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone density and deterioration of bone architecture that increase the risk of fractures.2 Osteoporosis-related fractures can increase pain, disability, nursing home placement, total health care costs, and mortality.3 The diagnosis of osteoporosis is primarily determined by measuring bone mineral density (BMD) using noninvasive dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Osteoporosis medications include bisphosphonates, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand inhibitors, estrogen agonists/antagonists, parathyroid hormone analogues, and calcitonin.3-6 Emerging therapies utilizing novel mechanisms include a cathepsin K inhibitor and a monoclonal antibody against sclerostin.7,8 While professional organizations have compiled recommendations for the management of osteoporosis in various populations, a consensus has yet to develop as to which is the gold standard; therefore, economic evaluations have been increasingly important to help guide decision-makers. A review of cost-effectiveness literature on the efficacy of oral bisphosphonates has shown alendronate and risedronate to be most cost-effective in women with low BMD without previous fractures.9 Guidelines are inconsistent as to the place in therapy of denosumab (Prolia, Amgen). In economic analyses evaluating treatment of postmenopausal women, denosumab outperformed risedronate and ibandronate; its efficacy was comparable to generic alendronate, but it cost more.10 With regard to older men with osteoporosis, denosumab was also found to be cost-effective when compared with bisphosphonates and teriparatide (Forteo, Lilly).11.

A Review of Osteoporosis in the Older Adult

Osteoporosis in the elderly population is common. It results in more than 1.5 million fractures per year in the United States. The goal of managing osteoporosis is to prevent fractures. In men, osteoporosis is underrecognized and undertreated. More men than women die every year as a consequence of hip fractures. A review of diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis is described in this article. Bisphosphonates are the first-line treatment for men and women. In the past several years, advances in bone biology have resulted in major therapeutic advances.

DIAGNOSIS OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Bone turnover markers: are they clinically useful?

Bone turnover markers (BTMs) are useful in clinical practice as they are inexpensive, and they have proven useful for treatment monitoring and identification of poor adherence. BTMs cannot be used in individual patients for identifying accelerated bone loss or an increase in fracture risk or in deciding on the optimal therapy. They are useful for monitoring both anti-resorptive and anabolic treatment. Response can be defined as a result that exceeds an absolute target, or by a change greater than the least significant change; if such a response is not present, then poor compliance or secondary osteoporosis are likely causes. A baseline BTM measurement is not always made; in that case, a value of BTM on anti-resorptive treatment that is low or low normal or above the reference interval for anabolic therapy may be taken to indicate a satisfactory response. We provide an approach to using these bone turnover markers in clinical practice by describing algorithms for anti-resorptive and anabolic therapy and describing the changes we observe in the clinical practice setting.

Management of oral bisphosphonates treatment by rheumatologists and determinants of therapeutic changes: a case-vignette-based study

Using case vignette methodology, this study shows that only 4% of patients are maintained on oral bisphosphonates over 5 years, and prescribers switch or stop the treatment in 20-30% of cases at each visit. There are few determinants of these changes. More information on appropriate follow-up could help in patients' management.

INTRODUCTION

Persistence to oral bisphosphonates, the most commonly prescribed anti-osteoporotic treatments, is low. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of rheumatologists on the treatment patterns, and to assess the determinants of treatment changes.

METHODS

We used the methodology of case vignettes with the participation of 142 rheumatologists. Three baseline clinical vignettes were presented: (1) the physician was asked to indicate the most appropriate period to schedule the next visit over 5 years, (2) the physician was tested about parameters for follow-up (including traps), and (3) various results (both clinical, biological, densitometric, and radiological) were given by random and analyzed as determinants of treatment changes.

RESULTS

The study allowed assessment of 426 virtual clinical cases. Clinical examinations, patient's height, inquiries about falls, and adherence to treatment were deemed necessary in > 90% of cases. Bone mineral density was measured in 22, 40, and 71% of cases at 2, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Dental follow-up was recommended in less than 25% of cases. Only 4.2% of patients were maintained on the same treatment at 5 years, and a change of treatment (stop or switch) occurs in 20-30% of cases at each visit. Significant determinants were adherence to treatment, serum C-terminal crosslinking telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX) value, change in patient's height, and the occurrence of an incident vertebral fracture.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that maintenance of oral bisphosphonate in postmenopausal women managed by rheumatologists is low; there are few determinants of these changes and more information on appropriate follow-up could help in patients' management.

UK clinical guideline for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

INTRODUCTION

In 2008, the UK National Osteoporosis Guideline Group (NOGG) produced a guideline on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, with an update in 2013. This paper presents a major update of the guideline, the scope of which is to review the assessment and management of osteoporosis and the prevention of fragility fractures in postmenopausal women and men age 50 years or over.

METHODS

Where available, systematic reviews, meta-analyses and randomised controlled trials were used to provide the evidence base. Conclusions and recommendations were systematically graded according to the strength of the available evidence.

RESULTS

Review of the evidence and recommendations are provided for the diagnosis of osteoporosis, fracture-risk assessment, lifestyle measures and pharmacological interventions, duration and monitoring of bisphosphonate therapy, glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, osteoporosis in men, postfracture care and intervention thresholds.

CONCLUSION

The guideline, which has received accreditation from the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), provides a comprehensive overview of the assessment and management of osteoporosis for all healthcare professionals who are involved in its management.

Bisphosphonate drug holidays in postmenopausal osteoporosis: effect on clinical fracture risk

A cohort of 183 postmenopausal women, who had either discontinued or continued bisphosphonates (BPs) after first-line therapy, was used to investigate the relationships between "drug holiday" and clinical fracture. The risk of new clinical fractures was found to be 40% higher in women who had taken a BP "drug holiday."

INTRODUCTION

BPs are the most widely used treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis. The optimal treatment duration, however, remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fracture risk in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis after discontinuing BP treatment (BP "drug holiday").

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed at Lille University Hospital (LUH) on postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who had taken a "drug holiday" or continued treatment after first-line BP therapy (3 to 5 years). The occurrence of new clinical fractures during follow-up was also explored. Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the relationships between BP "drug holiday" and the occurrence of clinical fractures, while controlling for confounding factors. Survival without new clinical fractures was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-three women (mean age: 61.8 years; SD: 8.7) who had previously undergone BP treatment for 3 to 5 years were enrolled in our study. The patients had received alendronate (n = 81), risedronate (n = 73), zoledronic acid (n = 20), and ibandronate (n = 9). In 166 patients ("drug holiday" group: n = 31; continuous-treatment group: n = 135), follow-up ranged from 6 to 36 months (mean duration: 31.8 months; SD: 8.2). The incidences of new clinical fractures during follow-up were 16.1% (5/31) and 11.9% (16/135). After full adjustment, the hazard ratio of new clinical fractures among "drug holiday" patients was 1.40 (95% CI: 1.12-1.60; p = 0.0095).

CONCLUSIONS

After first-line BP therapy in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, the risk of new clinical fractures was 40% higher in subjects who took a bisphosphonate drug holiday.

OSTEOPOROTIC FRACTURES DURING BISPHOSPHONATE DRUG HOLIDAY

OBJECTIVE

Bisphosphonate (BP) drug holidays are recommended to lower the risk of rare adverse events, such as atypical femoral fractures and osteonecrosis of the jaw. However, there are minimal data on the optimal duration of these holidays. Our aim was to determine the clinical and laboratory parameters associated with increased fracture risk in patients on BP drug holiday.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of 401 patients with osteopenia or osteoporosis who began a BP drug holiday from 2004 to 2013. Collected parameters included demographics, prior therapy, bone mineral density (BMD), bone turnover markers, parathyroid hormone, calcium & vitamin D status, and clinical reports of fractures.

RESULTS

Sixty-two (15.4%) patients developed a fracture during follow-up. The yearly incidence of fractures ranged from 3.7 to 9.9%, peaking at 9.9% and 9.8% during years 4 and 5, respectively. The mean age of the fracture group was higher than the nonfracture group, though not significantly different (69.24 ± 12.26 years vs. 66.42 ± 10.18 years; P = .09). Compared to the nonfracture group, the fracture group had lower femoral neck BMD (0.75 ± 0.12 g/cm² vs. 0.79 ± 0.10 g/cm²; P = .03) and T-scores (-2.13 ± 0.99 vs. -1.78 ± 0.79; P = .01) at baseline.

CONCLUSION

Patients who begin BP drug holidays at high risk of fracture based on BMD, age, or other clinical risk factors warrant close follow-up, especially as its duration lengthens. Fracture risk analysis needs to be regularly assessed during the drug holiday and treatment resumed accordingly.

ABBREVIATIONS

25-OHD = 25-hydroxyvitamin D AACE = American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists ACE = American College of Endocrinology BMD = bone mineral density BP = bisphosphonate BSAP = bone-specific alkaline phosphatase BTM = bone turnover marker FN = femoral neck LS = lumbar spine PTH = parathyroid hormone.