Long-term use of prescription drugs against the osteoporosis and expected to prevent fractures in the elderly - bisphosphonates - is associated with an increased risk of fracture of the femur.
That's the conclusion of a Canadian study of 205 000 women aged over 68 years who have taken bisphosphonates (Didronel, Fosamax, Actonel ...) between 2002 and 2008. These drugs are commonly used to counter the effects of osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones and affects nearly 2 million Canadians.
Results indicate that among women treated for over 5 years with bisphosphonates, the risk of fracture of the femur is multiplied by 2.7, compared to women not taking this treatment.
Useful bisphosphonates?
However, the researchers say this study does not call into question the efficacy of bisphosphonates. Indeed, these fractures of the femur (or subtrochanteric fractures) are called "atypical" because they are very rare in cases of osteoporosis, in contrast to femoral neck fractures are they very common.
Thus, although the frequency of atypical fractures is increased by the bisphosphonates, it remains very low (0.4% of women in the study). The risk is minor compared to the benefits of treatment: taking it for over 5 years, bisphosphonates could reduce by 24% the risk of fractures typical of osteoporosis. There is therefore no need to stop this treatment for people who need it, researchers say. However, among older women, who seem most at risk of suffering a fracture atypical, researchers emphasize that it might be better to halt processing time to time to reduce risk.
In his blog on responses to questions about menopause, Martin Winckler said that "drugs (bisphosphonates) sold in large numbers to prevent fractures from osteoporosis have an interest after a first fracture, to avoid second. But they have no proven efficacy in prevention among women who suffer from anything. In addition, evidence of their negative side effects accumulate, in particular the fact that they cause fractures.
