Osteofractures Drugs May Increase Fracture Risk
By: NBC News
Updated: May 22, 2012
New research shows common drugs for osteoporosis may increase the risk for a certain type of fracture.
The study of 500 adults who suffered fractures found those taking bisphosphonates were more likely to have an atypical fracture of the femur.
These bone breaks are relatively rare, but of the patients who did experience this fracture, 80 percent had been taking the drugs. The longer the patient took bisphosphonates, the higher the risk. However, their risk, for a classic femur fracture was lower.
Experts say in most cases, the benefits of the drugs outweigh the risks, but patients should talk to their doctor.
The study of 500 adults who suffered fractures found those taking bisphosphonates were more likely to have an atypical fracture of the femur.
These bone breaks are relatively rare, but of the patients who did experience this fracture, 80 percent had been taking the drugs. The longer the patient took bisphosphonates, the higher the risk. However, their risk, for a classic femur fracture was lower.
Experts say in most cases, the benefits of the drugs outweigh the risks, but patients should talk to their doctor.
