IBANDRONATE IN MALIGNANT BONE-DISEASES AND OSTEOPOROSIS - PRECLINICALRESULTS

Ibandronate is an aminobisphosphonate that targets bone and inhibits o steoclasts. It is one of the most potent bisphosphonates currently und er clinical investigation in metabolic bone disease and osteoporosis. In animal models ibandronate is 2, 10, 50 and 500 times more potent th an risedronate, alendronate, pamidronate, and clodronate, respectively , without any impairment of mineralization. Subcutaneous administratio n is as effective as intravenous administration, oral activity is 100 times lower. Tumor-related bone; destruction of either humoral or meta static origin is dramatically decreased. Bone loss and reduction in bo ne strength due to cessation of ovarian function is prevented by great er than or equal to 1 mu g/kg/day subcutaneously. The total dose rathe r than the treatment schedule seems to be important for efficacy. Stud ies on bone quality following long-term treatment demonstrated normal bone without any signs of deterioration.