Investigating the long-term effects of osteoporosis medications and treatment breaks

Benefits and Harms of Long-term Osteoporosis Pharmacotherapy: Impact of Treatment Length, Type, Switching, and Holidays

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-10899742

This study looks at how taking osteoporosis medications for a long time affects older adults, especially men and those living in nursing homes, to help understand the best ways to manage their treatment and reduce the risk of fractures.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10899742 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines how long-term use of osteoporosis medications, specifically bisphosphonates, affects older adults. It focuses on understanding the impact of treatment duration, switching medications, and taking breaks from therapy on fracture risks and other health outcomes. The study aims to fill knowledge gaps regarding the benefits and risks of these treatments, particularly for underrepresented groups such as men and nursing home residents. By analyzing data from community-dwelling older adults and nursing home residents, the research seeks to provide insights into optimal osteoporosis management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and older, who have been on osteoporosis medication for at least three years.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently on osteoporosis medications or those who are younger than 65 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for osteoporosis, enhancing patient safety and reducing fracture risks.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying outcomes regarding the long-term use of osteoporosis medications, indicating that this area is both relevant and in need of further exploration.

Where this research is happening

Providence, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.