Osteoporosis in the patients with rheumatoid arthritis (3) : the efficacy and the selection of the osteoporosis therapeutic drug

Abstract

Osteoporosis and fragile fractures are common and preventable complication in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) . We recently reported that the frequency of osteoporosis among RA patients was 53.3%, that of vertebral fractures was 19.3%. They were much higher rates than those of general population. Earlier drug intervention is necessary to prevent these complications. RA patients with glucocorticoid (GC) should be treated according to "Guidelines on the management and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis" published by JBMSR in 2004. The bone of RA patients are likely to be in high-turnover state. Consequently bisphosphonates, especially alendronate and risedronate, are recommended to regulate bone metabolism, to increase bone mineral density and prevent incidental fractures in RA patients.