Effects of Alendronate on Bone Density in Postmenopausal Women
Author Information
Author(s): Burghardt Andrew J, Kazakia Galateia J, Sode Miki, de Papp Anne E, Link Thomas M, Majumdar Sharmila
Primary Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
The study aims to characterize longitudinal changes in bone microarchitecture and function in women treated with alendronate.
Conclusion
Alendronate treatment resulted in significant improvements in bone density and microarchitecture in the distal tibia compared to placebo.
Supporting Evidence
- After 24 months of treatment, significant improvements in bone density were observed in the alendronate group.
- Alendronate treatment was associated with a reduction in biochemical markers of bone turnover.
- Significant differences in trabecular microarchitecture were noted between treatment and placebo groups.
Takeaway
This study looked at how a medicine called alendronate helps women with weak bones get stronger bones over two years.
Methodology
The study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study where participants underwent HR-pQCT imaging and DXA scans over 24 months.
Potential Biases
Potential selective bias due to the per-protocol analysis.
Limitations
The study had a high attrition rate and limited statistical power due to the small number of subjects completing the study.
Participant Demographics
53 early postmenopausal women aged 45-65 with low bone density.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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