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Review
. 2021 Mar 1;30(2):184-189.
doi: 10.1097/MNH.0000000000000682.

Bisphosphonates and management of kidney stones and bone disease

Megan Prochaska  1
Affiliations
Review

Bisphosphonates and management of kidney stones and bone disease

Megan Prochaska. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Kidney stones are strongly associated with low bone density and bone fracture. Clinical management focuses on prevention of kidney stones and bone fracture. We reviewed literature of kidney stones and bone disease with a special focus on updates in therapeutic strategies. We will review the literature regarding dietary management, supplements, and medications and emphasize the recent studies on bisphosphonates and kidney stone management.

Recent findings: Bisphosphonate medications are commonly used in management of low bone density. Previous studies showed that they reduce urinary calcium. A recent large prospective study found that bisphosphonates may reduce the risk of kidney stones in individuals who have low bone density. In addition to lowering urinary calcium, a recent study found that bisphosphonates may act as an inhibitor in the urinary space.

Summary: There are multiple dietary and pharmacologic strategies that can be considered for kidney stones and bone disease, such as low salt and normal calcium diet, as well as thiazides, alkali, and bisphosphonate medications. Bisphosphonates may have an important role in reducing bone resorption and reducing overall risk of kidney stone and bone disease.

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Comment in

  • Urolithiasis/Endourology.
    Assimos DG. Assimos DG. J Urol. 2021 Nov;206(5):1321-1324. doi: 10.1097/JU.0000000000002151. Epub 2021 Aug 18. J Urol. 2021. PMID: 34406026 No abstract available.

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