The use of bisphosphonates by postmenopausal osteoporotic women: adherence and side effects

Adherence to bisphosphonates has become a major issue in clinical practice due to its effect on bone mineral density and fracture risk. This study aims to evaluate the adherence of a sample of postmenopausal osteoporotic women and to investigate the side effects experienced by them. For each participant in the study, a recent DXA scan (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) result confirming the diagnosis of osteoporosis was recorded. In addition, they were interviewed to fill the questionnaire and to answer six questions that comprised the modified Morisky scale. It was found that mean age of the medium or low adherence group (64.7 years) was significantly higher than mean age of the high adherence group (62.5 year), p = 0.029. Among women in the study, 73.6% of women were highly adherent. Adverse effects occurred in 26% of the sample. Family history of osteoporosis (odds ratio (OR): 0.453; confidence interval (CI): 0.228-0.899; p = 0.023) and tendency to fall (OR: 0.531; CI: 0.285-0.991; p = 0.047) were the two predictors for adherence to bisphosphonates. The adherence level reported in the current study was relatively high, this can be a good indicator about healthcare provided to postmenopausal osteoporotic women in the family practice clinic.