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WCN: Fosamax (Alendronate) Prevents Bone Mineral Loss After Kidney Transplant By Lynn Haley Special to DG News SAN FRANCISCO, CA -- October 17, 2001 -- Five milligrams of Fosamax (alendronate) following kidney transplantation prevents initial bone loss in these patients. This study finding was presented by Canadian researchers from the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital, University of Montreal, Quebec, Canada, at the premier World Congress of Nephrology, co-hosted by the American Society of Nephrology and the International Society of Nephrology, held from October 10th - 17th. Osteoporosis and osteopenia are frequent complications found in patients who have undergone a kidney transplant (KTR). Research has demonstrated the role of bisphosphonates in the prevention and treatment of corticoid-induced osteoporosis, but few studies have been done in bone mineral loss following KTR. Researchers studied 45 patients. Patients less than 18 years of age were excluded, as were those who had undergone more than one kidney transplant, had severe hyperparathyroidism, or had osteoporosis. Bone mineral density (BMD) was assessed at the time of the transplant, and again at six-month intervals for two years. Patients were randomised to either the control group, which received vitamin D and calcium, or the treatment group, which received vitamin D, calcium, and a daily 5 mg dose of alendronate. Researchers presented preliminary data on 20 patients at one year who had undergone BMD measurement. Body mass index was assessed using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). In both groups, the immunosuppressive regimen, co-morbid conditions and renal function were the same. Results of the effect of alendronate on BMD showed that at six months, there was no significant difference between the control group and the alendronate group (-1.3 versus -1.8 respectively). From six-12 months, a change between the two groups was observed (-1.3, control group, versus +3.1, Aldendronate group, p=<0.05). By the one-year mark, the alendronate group again showed better BMD results than the control group (+1.4 versus -2.7 respectively, p=0.06). Researchers say the alendronate was well tolerated. One patient dropped out of the study. There was no associated decreased graft function, and no fractures were suffered during the course of the study. The investigators concluded that 5 mg of alendronate daily can prevent the initial bone loss that frequently occurs following a kidney transplant. This dosage is associated with an increase of 2 percent of BMD following 12 months of treatment. Related Link: Fosamax (alendronate). E-mail this page to a friend or colleague! To print, use this version