Oral bisphosphonates and colon cancer: an update.
Bisphosphonates (BPs) are widely used as the main treatment for osteoporosis. In vitro and animal studies suggest that use of BPs may have a potential for colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention. Safety and efficacy in terms of osteoporosis prevention have only been evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of relatively short duration (3-5 years), with smaller extension studies. The evidence for a benefit beyond 5 years is limited and intake of BPs has not shown any relationship with CRC in intervention studies. Observational studies and meta-analysis have shown unchanged or decreased risk of CRC. BPs used for treatment and prevention of osteoporosis should not be applied for prevention of CRC in clinical practice.
Department of Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology, NOH Hillerød Hospital, Dyrehavevej 29, DK-3400 Hillerød, Denmark and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Pia
P
Eiken
Department of Endocrinology and Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark and Clinical Institute, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark.
Peter
P
Vestergaard
bisphosphonates; colorectal cancer; risk