Postmenopausal females and the link between oral bisphosphonates and osteonecrosis of the jaw: A clinical review

    Authors

    M. S. Haumschild;R. J. Haumschild

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Am. Acad. Nurse Pract.

    Keywords

    Oral bisphosphonates; osteonecrosis of the jaw; bisphosphonate-related; osteonecrosis of the jaws; osteoporosis; EXPOSED BONE; RISK-FACTORS; PREVENTION; THERAPY; RECOGNITION; CARE; Health Care Sciences & Services; Nursing

    Abstract

    Purpose: To increase awareness for nurse practitioners (NPs) of new information concerning the plausible link between the oral bisphosphonate drug classification and necrosis in the jaw. Data sources: Selected research and clinical articles. In addition, several peer-reviewed, refereed medical and dental journals were consulted. Conclusions: Oral bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed by NPs for postmenopausal females with the diagnosis of osteoporosis to arrest bone loss and preserve bone density. Recent reports have shown a link between these medications and osteonecrosis of the jaw, which is a complication resulting in necrotic bone inside the mouth. Implications for practice: NPs must be able to determine early warning signs of osteonecrosis to ensure prompt referral to a dental specialist in order to prevent irreversible sequelae. Because of the aging population, osteoporosis is predicted to increase; therefore, treatment with these drugs and the side effects that go along with them will most likely also increase.

    Journal Title

    Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

    Volume

    22

    Issue/Number

    10

    Publication Date

    1-1-2010

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    534

    Last Page

    539

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000282873800005

    ISSN

    1041-2972

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