Effect of bisphosphonates on bone mineral density after renal transplantation as assessed by bone mineral densitometry

Introduction. Steroid-induced osteoporosis is a major problem after organ transplantation. There is considerable evidence that bisphosphonates are effective in decreasing osteoporosis. Aim. This prospective study was carried out to seethe effects of bisphosphonates on bone mineral density (BMD) after successful renal transplantation. Material and methods. Fifty consecutive patients of successful renal transplantation were randomized into two groups. Group A (n = 27) received 35 mg/wk of Alendronate for 6 months after transplantation. Group B (n = 23) did not receive Alendronate and served as a control. Both groups underwent a pretransplant baseline dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan of their hips and lumber spines. Both groups received oral calcium and vitamin D supplement. Both groups were matched for the regimen and dose of immunosuppressive drugs. BMD was measured at 3 months and 6 months after transplantation. Results. Both groups showed a decline in BMD in early months posttransplantation. However, the 6-month DEXA scans showed a significant rise in BMD in group A as compared to group B. Conclusion. Bisphosphonates appear to have a beneficial effect on steroid-induced bone loss.