Bone builders linked to breaks
A few days ago I wrote to you about recent research findings linking bisphosphonates to—ironically—excruciating and debilitating bone pain. This class of drugs, known as "bone builders," is used in the (over)treatment of osteoporosis—and to reduce the risk of bone fractures.
The latest reports show that long-term use of Fosamax, a popularly prescribed bisphosphonate, has been linked to what's described as "unusual" fractures of the femur (located in your thigh).
These fractures resulted from simply falling from a standing (or even lower) position—it's not like they took a trip down a flight of stairs. What makes the breaks unusual is that they're horizontal, occurring across the bone.
A third of the women who experienced this sort of fracture had been taking the drug long-term, with two-thirds taking Fosamax for an average of seven years. The other third had spent an average of almost three years on this drug.
The researchers want to cast a wider net and pin down the specifics as to why this drug would cause this type of fracture.
Naturally, speculation and theories abound. One is that this class of drugs may be slowing down the growth of new collagen, which is a very strong fibrous protein. Another possibility is that the turnover of bone cells slows down with the use of this drug, possibly causing weak points to develop that can become a full- fledged fracture when stressed.
And Merck is quick to defend its big-selling baby, saying that Fosamax hasn't been linked to any increased risk of fracture. Of course, judging by a lot of recent press, we'd be the last ones to know if they did know of a link. That's why I take their (and any other drug company's) protests with a grain of salt.
The logic behind giving these bone-building drugs is to prevent hip fractures, which can be deadly. But judging from these recent studies that show a propensity for pain, agony and now, the possibility of "unusual" fractures in the longest, strongest bone in your body—there's no logic at all. It's time to get a new game plan.
I'm going to tell you what I tell my patients: Do strength-training exercises. There have been multiple studies that show the same results—you'll reduce your risk of fracture by strengthening the muscles that surround your bones. People with strong muscles have better coordination and bodily control, which also enables you to catch yourself should you start to fall in the first place.
There are also other, better ways to support bone health than risking your well being with one of these marginally effective, potentially damaging drugs. We'll talk about some of these in future House Calls.
