Ibandronate in profile: drug characteristics and clinical efficacy.

BACKGROUND

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a serious, chronic condition, for which nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates are now one of the treatments of choice.

OBJECTIVE

To review the profile of ibandronate, a monthly oral (150 mg) or quarterly intravenous injection (3 mg) of bisphosphonate.

METHODS

The literature search was limited to publications of ibandronate data.

RESULTS/

CONCLUSION

Ibandronate is rapidly absorbed and distributed in the bone; it is not metabolised and is excreted in urine. Clinical trial data have demonstrated the efficacy of ibandronate in reducing fracture risk, increasing bone mineral density and reducing bone turnover. These data are supported by recent meta-analyses and a large database study that have demonstrated antifracture efficacy with the ibandronate regimens used in clinical practice. Overall, ibandronate has generally been well tolerated. Therefore, ibandronate is a useful treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis.