Date of Award

5-2020

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Russ Kauffman

Keywords

romosozumab, alendronate, postmenopausal, female, human, safety, efficacy

Abstract

The purpose of this literature review is to determine if there is a statistical difference in the safety and efficacy between romosozumab, the prototypical drug in the new drug class sclerostin inhibitors, versus alendronate, the prototypical bisphosphonate, in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. A comprehensive literature review was performed searching three databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, and Access Medicine from the last five years. Works chosen for review were limited to articles published in English, full-text articles, clinical trials, randomized control trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Items were excluded after reviewing abstracts due to material not directly comparing the treatment modalities. The research presented shows beneficial evidence of bone formation and retention of bone density with treating postmenopausal women with osteoporosis with romosozumab for two years, followed by bisphosphonate therapy. However, the risks and benefits of this treatment regimen must be taken into consideration for each patient. Taking extra caution in starting romosozumab treatment in patients with cardiovascular health issues. Healthcare providers must take a thorough medical history and decide in collaboration with the patient about their treatment for osteoporosis. Current research on sclerostin inhibitors does show promise in the treatment of osteoporosis. However, more research still needs to be done to determine safety in patients with cardiovascular health issues.

Share

COinS