Bisphosphonate therapy in CKD: the current state of affairs

Purpose of review Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with the development of mineral and bone disorders (MBD), including renal osteodystrophy (ROD). ROD is a global disorder of bone strength that is associated with an increased fracture risk. The use of bisphosphonates for fracture risk reduction in CKD remains controversial. This review provides a synopsis of the state-of-the literature regarding the safety and potential antifracture benefits of bisphosphonates in CKD patients. Recent findings In preclinical studies of animals with CKD 3–4 and evidence of CKD-MBD, bisphosphonates resulted in changes in bone quality that improve bone strength. Bone turnover was generally reduced to a similar extent in animals with and without CKD. Post hoc analyses of randomized trials in patients with CKD 3–4 reported increases in bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture reduction that were similar in patients with and without CKD. There are no primary clinical trial data in patients with CKD-MBD. Summary In patients with CKD without evidence of CKD-MBD, the use of bisphosphonates should follow general population guidelines. The lack of data for patients with CKD 4–5D and evidence of CKD-MBD makes treatment decisions challenging. Clinical studies are urgently needed to provide data on the safety and antifracture benefits of bisphosphonates in these cohorts.
Source: Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension - Category: Urology & Nephrology Tags: CLINICAL NEPHROLOGY: Edited by David S. Goldfarb Source Type: research