Women on Osteoporosis Therapy May Need Screening X-Rays

Women on long-term Osteoporosis medications called bisphosphonates might benefit from screening X-Rays, radiographs, to detect a type of fracture in the upper leg called incomplete atypical femoral fractures (AFF).

Two studies were presented recently at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting discussing the possible risks of long-term use of medications for Osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates such as Fosamax, Boniva, Actonel, and Reclast are often prescribed for the treatment of Osteoporosis and the studies showed that long-term use of this class of medication was associated with an increase risk of developing this type of fracture.

The authors suggest routine screening radiographs on patients that have been on these medications for more than 3 years. Further study is also suggested.

J. Kyle Mathews, MD

Plano OBGyn Associates

Plano Urogynecology Associates

Tags: Actonel, bone loss, Boniva, Fosamax, fracture, J Kyle Mathews, osteoporosis, Reclast | Category: Menopause, News & Education |