Novartis: Aclasta better than risedronate at increasing bone mass

Novartis has announced the publication of new data showing that Aclasta (zoledronic acid) is better than risedronate at increasing bone mass in patients with osteoporosis caused by glucocorticoids.

The firm notes that glucocorticoids (steroids) are often used as a treatment for inflammatory diseases but can increase the risk of patients experiencing osteoporotic fractures.

Speaking at the European congress on Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis, it added that up to half the patients on long-term therapy with steroids are at risk of such fractures.

Novartis reports that a study of over 800 patients showed higher bone mineral density with Aclasta than the established therapy of risdedronate, with the company consequently seeking regulatory approval in the EU and US for the drug in this indication.

Professor David M Reid, head of the division of applied medicine at the University of Aberdeen, said: “Recognising and treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is an important need, as glucocorticoid therapy is so widely used and presents an ongoing challenge for physicians.”

He added that the significant efficacy shown by the once-yearly administration of Aclasta can offer a valuable treatment option for physicians working in this field.

In October 2007, Aclasta received EU approval as a once-yearly treatment for women with postmenopausal osteoporosis.