Effects of Risedronate Treatment on Vertebral and Nonvertebral Fractures in Women With Postmenopausal OsteoporosisA Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Declining estrogen levels at menopause result in increased bone turnover and a loss of bone mass, with subsequent increases in bone fragility and the risk of bone fracture. Vertebral fracture, in particular, is a common consequence of osteoporosis and may be considered the hallmark fracture for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.¹ Because of the high frequency of vertebral fractures in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis, clinical trials of osteoporosis therapies now typically assess the effects of treatment on vertebral fracture incidence as the primary end point. Prevention of nonvertebral fractures is another important goal of treatment because of the pain and disability associated with these fractures.