Long-Term Cessation of Osteoporosis Therapy in Postmenopausal Women

Overview

This study analyzes the incidence of long-term discontinuation (LTD) of osteoporosis therapy in postmenopausal women using French national claims data. It highlights differences in fracture risk associated with the cessation of bisphosphonates versus denosumab, based on the findings from the data analyzed.

Background

Osteoporosis is a significant global health issue, affecting over 200 million people and leading to millions of fractures annually. In postmenopausal women, bisphosphonates are commonly used to reduce fracture risk. Long-term discontinuation of therapy raises concerns about potential increases in fracture risk.

Data Highlights

The study utilized data from the French Système National de Données de Santé, covering over 99% of the population.

Key Findings

• Long-term discontinuation of bisphosphonates may be considered for patients with low fracture risk after 3-5 years of treatment.
• Discontinuation of denosumab is not recommended due to rapid bone loss and increased fracture risk.
• Patients with prior Paget disease or cancer were excluded from the study.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should evaluate the risks and benefits of long-term discontinuation of osteoporosis therapies in postmenopausal women based on fracture risk assessments.

Conclusion

The study provides insights into the effects of long-term cessation of osteoporosis therapy, emphasizing the need for ongoing evaluation of treatment strategies.

Related Resources & Content

1. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2023 -- Efficacy of Bisphosphonate Treatment in Young Adults Experiencing Fragility Fractures: A Population-Based Cohort Analysis
2. The ASCO Post, 2026 -- Nonmetastatic Breast Cancer: Treatment Strategies After Denosumab Discontinuation in Patients Treated With Aromatase Inhibitors
3. MDSpire News, 2023 -- Fragility Fractures: Missed Opportunities in Treatment
4. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2023 -- Efficacy of Zoledronate Administered Every 5 or 10 Years for Fracture Prevention in Women Aged 50 to 60: Insights from Secondary Analyses of a Randomized Study
5. Project information | Osteoporosis: risk assessment, treatment, and fragility fracture prevention (update) | Guidance | NICE, 2026
6. Effects of continuing or stopping alendronate after 5 years of treatment: the Fracture Intervention Trial Long-term Extension (FLEX): a randomized trial - PubMed, 2023
7. Multiple Vertebral Fractures After Denosumab Discontinuation: FREEDOM and FREEDOM Extension Trials Additional Post Hoc Analyses - PMC, 2023
8. Project information | Osteoporosis: risk assessment, treatment, and fragility fracture prevention (update) | Guidance | NICE
9. Effects of continuing or stopping alendronate after 5 years of treatment: the Fracture Intervention Trial Long-term Extension (FLEX): a randomized trial - PubMed
10. Multiple Vertebral Fractures After Denosumab Discontinuation: FREEDOM and FREEDOM Extension Trials Additional Post Hoc Analyses - PMC