Diphosphates

Application in Particular Diseases

Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis:
Bisphosphonates(e.g. alendronate, risedronate) have documented efficacy and are FDA approved for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. The American College of Rheumatology guidelines recommend that all patients newly starting on systemic glucocorticoids (≥5 mg/day of prednisone equivalent) for an anticipated duration of at least 3 months should receive preventive bisphosphonate therapy. Patients starting or receiving long-term glucocorticoid therapy with documented low bone density (T-score below –1) or evidence of a low-trauma fracture should also receive bisphosphonate treatment.