New Study Shows Enormous Risk for Atrial Fibrillation with Fosamax and Zometa

68 Percent Increased Risk Leading to Hospitalization or Death

Results from a pooled analysis of 3 randomized controlled studies on bisphosphonate medications, specifically alendronate (Fosamax) or zoledronic acid (Reclast, Zometa), have revealed a staggering 68 percent increase in the risk for atrial fibrillation leading to death or hospitalization, compared with patients taking placebo.

The authors of the study, who presented their findings at the American College of Chest Physicians meeting in Philadelphia this week, have warned that clinicians should exercise greater caution when prescribing these drugs in patients with pre-existing risk factors for atrial fibrillation.

This new finding resulted from an analysis of more than 16,000 patients, the vast majority of whom were female, with a mean age range of 69 to 75 years.

Atrial fibrillation has been noted as an adverse event associated with fosamax and zometa previously, and those studies, in conjunction with data from post-marketing reports, prompted the FDA to continue its safety review of the drugs. However, the FDA did not recommend that doctors change their prescribing practices as a cautionary measure.

OCT 28-08: Bisphosphonates May Increase Risk of Atrial Fibrillation [MEDAPGE TODAY: BISPHOSPHONATES MAY INCREASE RISK FOR ATRIAL FIBRILLATION]

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Published on Oct-28-08