Skeletal benefit after one year of risedronate therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: a prospective study
Lange, U.; Illgner, U.; Teichmann, J.; Schleenbecker, H.
International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology Research 24(2-3): 33-38
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0251-1649 PMID: 15689049 Document Number: 570162
Glucocorticoid therapy is an important risk factor for osteoporosis in rheumatoid arthritis. Reduction in fracture risk is the most important endpoint for osteoporosis treatments. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether skeletal benefit (increases in osteosonogrammetry parameters, reduction in bone turnover and fracture incidence) are maintained during a follow-up of 1 year with risedronate therapy (5 mg/day). During the study period osteosonogrammetry parameters showed a significant increase and no new osteoporotic fractures were reported, suggesting an antifracture effect of risedronate therapy. Urine crosslinks (as a bone resorption marker) significantly decreased during the follow-up, suggesting a positive balance in the bone remodeling process. The tolerability of risedronate was good and only seven out of 51 patients presented minimal adverse effects. In summary, risedronate significantly decreased new osteoporotic fractures in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis and is an effective and well-tolerated treatment.