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Chronic kidney disease, known as CKD, is a condition where the kidneys don’t function to their full ability. This condition commonly affects older patients. Chronic kidney disease can get worse over time when not treated correctly, but many patients with CKD live a long life with the condition.
However, because the kidneys play a role in breaking down substances in many medications, those with decreased kidney function need to be cautious when taking medications. Some medications can decrease blood flow to the kidneys, impairing their already limited functionality and resulting in further damage and health risks.
One recent study analyzed the impact of bisphosphonates on patients with CKD. This study showed that adults with moderate to severe kidney disease were at no greater risk of death when prescribed a bisphosphonate.
What Are Bisphosphonates?
Bisphosphonates are a group of drugs that can slow bone loss by preventing a loss of calcium and minerals. They are commonly used to treat diseases such as osteoporosis. They are also often used for kidney transplant recipients, as transplant patients may suffer complications including mineral and bone disorder.
Bone renewal is a slow process, but generally, bone density is shown to increase within five years of treatment with bisphosphonates. Some common medications in the bisphosphonate family include Actonel or Atelvia (risedronate), Fosamax (alendronate), and Boniva (ibandronate). These medications are taken orally, as are most bisphosphonates, although some medications can be taken through an injection.
Study Shows Safe Use
Bisphosphonates are cleared from the body by the kidneys, and so they have the potential to worsen kidney function. However, this recent study has shown that bisphosphonates did not cause increased mortality in chronic kidney disease patients, so they can safely benefit from bisphosphonates. This is significant, as in the past patients with severe kidney disease have been cautioned against taking similar medications. But now, doctors can be reassured in prescribing them to CKD patients who suffer from osteoporosis, post-transplant complications, or other conditions treated by bisphosphonates.
The study itself was based on data from over 230,000 adults aged over 40. The data came from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink and the Catalan Information System for Research in Primary Care. It was performed by personnel from the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, University of New South Wales, Sydney.
What This Means for CKD Patients
Most patients who have chronic kidney disease are more advanced in age. Since the likelihood of osteoporosis also increases in later life, it’s extremely beneficial to know that oral bisphosphonates do not pose a health risk for patients who are dealing with chronic kidney disease. Elderly patients who are at risk of fracture or have been hospitalized for a fracture or related injury can safely be administered oral bisphosphonate without a negative impact on the kidneys.
As safety is the first concern for medical professionals, it’s essential that studies such as this one continue to ensure the continued safety of patients. It is beneficial to understand how medications can be safely and successfully administered to patients with overlapping health conditions so that patients can have access to a full range of treatments.
