New uses of bisphosphonates: osteogenesis imperfecta

Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2002 Dec;2(6):748-53. doi: 10.1016/s1471-4892(02)00218-7.

Abstract

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a heterogeneous group of inherited disorders chiefly affecting type I collagen, resulting in bone fragility responsible for a host of recurrent fractures. Limb and spine deformities, growth failure and restricted mobility are the end-result in severe cases. Cyclical intermittent intravenous infusions of pamidronate, a potent inhibitor of bone resorption, have yielded substantial improvement in chronic pain, bone mineral density, fracture rate and mobility without significant side effects. The role of growth hormone and bone marrow transplantation in the treatment of osteogenesis imperfecta is still unresolved. Newer, theoretically more potent bisphosphonates are currently being tested in this potentially crippling condition.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bone Density / drug effects
  • Diphosphonates / pharmacology
  • Diphosphonates / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Osteogenesis Imperfecta / classification
  • Osteogenesis Imperfecta / diagnosis
  • Osteogenesis Imperfecta / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Diphosphonates