The possible use of bisphosphonates in the treatment of renal osteodystrophy

Bisphosphonates appear to provide an attractive, novel approach in the management of patients with uremic bone disease. Only limited studies are available. Based on the understanding of the pathogenesis of renal bone disease, three major indications for the use of bisphosphonates in patients with uremic bone disease emerge: 1. Hypercalcemia related to increased release of calcium from bone. 2. Excessive elevation of bone turnover related to increased parathyroid hormone effects. 3. Extraosseous calcifications due to high calcium phosphorus product. Moreover, further studies may reveal how the combination between bisphosphonates and 1,25 vitamin D therapy might affect uremic bone. Details on doses, mode of administration (continuously vs. intermittently) and optimal duration of therapy should be tested in an animal model of uremic bone disease.