Hydroxymethylglutaryl-Coenzyme A Reductase Inhibitors in Osteoporosis Management

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the use and potential benefit of hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) in the management of osteoporosis.

DATA SOURCES:

Clinical literature accessed through MEDLINE (1994–May 2001) using the key search terms HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, statins, osteoporosis, and fractures.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease, affecting millions of people worldwide and leading to significant morbidity and high expenditures, especially when it is not adequately managed. Recent data have documented a potential association between statin use and improvement in fracture risk profile. Therefore, an evaluation of studies investigating the effect of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors on bone and fracture risk was conducted.

CONCLUSIONS:

Observational studies suggest an association between HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors and reduction in fracture risk. However, large randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm this association.