The effect of a modified etidronate cyclical regimen on postmenopausal osteoporosis: a four-year study.
To develop an improved treatment schedule for osteoporosis, a study was undertaken in 100 postmenopausal women using a modified ADFR 90-day cyclical regimen with etidronate. After one year of treatment, the etidronate-treated group showed a significant increase in bone density of the spine, which continued over the following 2 years of treatment and remained stable during the fourth year. In contrast, in the non-etidronate group, bone density decreased significantly after four years. In addition, the fracture rate was significantly lower in the etidronate group than in the non-etidronate group. Side effects were minimal in both groups and no serious adverse reactions were reported. In conclusion, it appears that a cyclical regimen using 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, etidronate and calcium increases bone mass and reduces fractures with no significant side effects, thus making a useful contribution in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Lyritis
G P
GP
Laboratory for the Research of Musculoskeletal System, University of Athens, KAT Hospital, Kifissia, Greece.
Tsakalakos
N
N
Paspati
I
I
Skarantavos
G
G
Galanos
A
A
Androulakis
C
C
D000368:Aged; D015519:Bone Density / Q000187:drug effects*; D002117:Calcitriol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D012968:Etidronic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D005265:Femoral Neck Fractures / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D015663:Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000517:prevention & control
D002117:Calcitriol; D012968:Etidronic Acid