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Post by jeffolie on Mar 8, 2010 21:18:14 GMT -6
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Post by unlawflcombatnt on Mar 8, 2010 21:53:50 GMT -6
Finally.
Someone has finally come out and stated what should have always been obvious--Fosamax inhibits bone-remodeling.
Fosamax's mechanism of action is to inhibit bone resorption/catabolism by osteoclasts. In theory, the lack of breakdown would make bones denser.
But by inhibiting breakdown, the rebuilding and remodeling of bones to better withstand stresses is also reduced. If the net effect weakening effects of this are greater than the density increasing effects, the bone becomes weaker--despite density increases.
I did extensive literature research of Fosamax and other biphosphonate osteoclast inhibitors in the late 90's, and none of the studies showed especially impressive benefits. Further, it was fairly obvious that Estrogen replacement was far more effective at preventing bone loss and fractures.
But apparently Big Pharma and its advertising ruled the day, and doctors began prescribing biphosphonates en masse.
I've never started a patient on Fosamax or other biphosphonates initially. I've only refilled other physicians' prescriptions. And I've taken patients off of them--especially in cases of a new fracture, where the inhibition of bone resorption and remodeling would clearly slow the healing process.
A large number of prescriptions for these drugs are the result of patient requests, which is just one more reason why Pharmaceutical advertising on television should be completely banned.
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