Keywords

atypical femoral fracture, bisphosphonates, bone mineral density, drug holidays, fractures, osteonecrosis of the jaw, osteopenia, osteoporosis

Authors

1. DiGiulio, Mary DNP, ANP-BC, GNP-BC, FAANP
2. Loveless, Thomas PhD, CRNP
3. Heider, Gerti PhD, APRN, GNP-BC, ANP
4. Fagan, Kathleen PhD, RN, WHNP
5. Porsche, Barbara BSN, RN

Abstract

Abstract: Bisphosphonates have been safely used to treat osteoporosis, effectively reducing fracture risk after 3 to 5 years of treatment. Recent concerns about long-term safety coupled with posttreatment fracture risk reduction have increased support for drug holidays. The decision to start low-risk patients on drug holidays must be based on current fracture risk assessment.