[Recent topics on therapeutics for osteoporosis in patients complicated with vascular diseases].
The association of osteoporosis with atherosclerosis in elderly patients has been often recognized. Recent evidence suggests that etiologic factors of osteoporosis may modulate the development of atherosclerosis, and vice versa. Furthermore, bisphosphonates may prevent the development of atherosclerosis, while statins may increase bone mineral density and thereby decrease the risk of osteoporotic fractures. These two drugs may have the common target of action, the mevalonate pathway. Therefore, it is important to consider the effects of therapeutic agents on cardiovascular system, when the treatment of osteoporosis in elderly patients is initiated.
Shioi
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Department of Cardiovascular medicine, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine.