Bisphosphonates - Mechanisms of action

Abstract

The bisphosphonates inhibit the resorption of bone by osteoclasts and may have an effect on osteoblasts. They are structurally similar to pyrophosphate, a normal product of human metabolism. This structure gives the drugs a high affinity for bone and they probably remain in bone for many years. A high affinity for hydroxyapatite enables radiolabelled bisphosphonates to be used in bone scanning. The bisphosphonates are effective in the treatment of diseases of increased resorption.