Abstract
In This Issue...
Bisphosphonates have been in use for approximately 25 years, most commonly to treat diseases characterized by bone loss, such as osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates are also used in adjunctive treatment of cancers that involve bone-related complications. Currently, bisphosphonates are approved only for the treatment of patients with advanced cancer who have bone metastases, but researchers are investigating the direct antitumor effects of these agents and their benefits in treating bone loss resulting from hormonal cancer treatment. In this report, we present an overview of bisphosphonate treatment, including a description of bone remodeling, currently available agents, and safety concerns. We discuss the use of bisphosphonates in the treatment of bone metastases and bone loss in breast and prostate cancer patients and as antitumor agents. We also profile emerging nonbisphosphonate agents that target bone and may pose significant competition for bisphosphonates.
Table of Contents
Introduction
An Overview of Bisphosphonate Treatment
Bisphosphonates to Treat Bone Metastases
Bisphosphonates to Treat Bone Loss in Breast and Prostate Cancer
Bisphosphonates as Direct Antitumor Agents
Companies Developing Nonbisphosphonate Bone- Targeting Cancer Treatments
Outlook
