An Exploratory Analysis of Alendronate in Older Men with Low Glomerular Filtration Rate

Abstract Bisphosphonates are not recommended for patients with a creatinine clearance less than 35 ml/minute, yet many individuals with osteoporosis have reduced renal function. We performed a retrospective case-control study to explore the effects of alendronate on bone mass in such individuals. Cases and controls had a mean glomerular filtration rate of 26 and 70 ml/minute, respectively, and mean age of 82 and 62 years, respectively. The change in bone mass at the spine, femur, and radius was similar between cases and controls (p > 0.05, all comparisons). A prospective clinical trial defining the role of bisphosphonate therapy among older individuals with renal disease is warranted.