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Effects of continuing or stopping alendronate after 5 years of treatment: the Fracture Intervention Trial Long-term Extension (FLEX): a randomized trial.

Author: , BauerDouglas C, BlackDennis M, CauleyJane A, CummingsSteven R, EnsrudKristine E, LevisSilvina, LombardiAntonio, PalermoLisa, QuandtSara A, SantoraArthur C, SatterfieldSuzanne, SchwartzAnn V, WallaceRobert B, WehrenLois E

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Overview

Discontinuing alendronate after 5 years resulted in a moderate decline in BMD and a gradual rise in biochemical markers but no higher fracture risk compared with continuing alendronate.
Paper Details　
Original Abstract of the Article :
CONTEXT: The optimal duration of treatment of women with postmenopausal osteoporosis is uncertain. OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of discontinuing alendronate treatment after 5 years vs continuing for 10 years. DESIGN AND SETTING: Randomized, double-blind trial conducted at 10 US clinical cente...See full text at original site
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引用元：
https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.296.24.2927

データ提供：米国国立医学図書館（NLM）

Alendronate for Osteoporosis: A Long-Term Journey

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak bones, can be a challenging journey for women, particularly those who have gone through menopause. Alendronate, a medication commonly used to treat osteoporosis, has proven effective, but determining the ideal duration of treatment has been a puzzle. This study, a long-term extension of a previous trial, aimed to investigate the long-term effects of continuing or stopping alendronate after five years of treatment.

The Alendronate Oasis: Long-Term Insights

The researchers found that discontinuing alendronate treatment after five years resulted in a moderate decline in bone mineral density, a crucial indicator of bone strength. However, the study also revealed that this decline didn't significantly increase the risk of fractures, except for clinical vertebral fractures, compared to those who continued treatment. These findings provide valuable insights into the long-term implications of alendronate treatment.

Navigating the Osteoporosis Desert: Personalized Treatment

The research emphasizes the importance of individualizing treatment strategies for osteoporosis. While discontinuing alendronate after five years doesn't appear to significantly increase fracture risk for many women, those at high risk of clinical vertebral fractures may benefit from continuing treatment. Consulting with a healthcare professional to assess individual risk factors and tailor treatment plans is crucial for managing osteoporosis effectively.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

The journey of managing osteoporosis is like traversing a vast desert landscape. This study offers valuable insights into the long-term effects of alendronate, suggesting that for many women, a five-year course may be sufficient. However, personalized treatment plans, tailored to individual risk factors, are essential for ensuring optimal bone health and minimizing the risk of fractures.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 2007-01-04
  2. Date Revised 2022-03-31
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

17190893

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

10.1001/jama.296.24.2927

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・Effective treatment of osteoporosis
SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

Positive IndicatorAn AI analysis index that serves as a benchmark for how positive the results of the study are. Note that it is a benchmark and requires careful interpretation and consideration of different perspectives.

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