Osteoporosis drugs may help ‘seniors over 80’ recover from fractures: Study

New research presented at the Endocrine Society’s meeting in San Francisco suggests that older adults aged 80 and above who suffer fractures due to osteoporosis could significantly benefit from bone-strengthening medications.

Historically, there has been hesitation to start osteoporosis treatments in very elderly patients due to concerns about side effects. However, a large-scale study by Cleveland Clinic researchers challenges that caution.

The study analyzed the medical records of 88,676 patients aged 80 or older who had experienced osteoporotic fractures. Half of the patients were prescribed medications such as Fosamax (Merck), Boniva (Roche/GSK), Prolia (Amgen), Evista, or Forteo (Eli Lilly). The remaining half did not receive osteoporosis treatments.

Over a five-year period, the group treated with these medications saw a 19% reduction in hospital admissions and a 15% decrease in mortality, even after accounting for other health conditions.

Lead researcher Dr. Giannina Flocco emphasized the importance of individualized care, saying, “Our study supports encouraging osteoporosis treatment even for those over 80, based on individual risk factors.”

She added that preventing complications like fractures that lead to disability or death could greatly improve quality of life and health outcomes for the elderly.