Effect of long-term use of bisphosphates on microdamage and mechanical properties of bone

Bisphosphates as a first-line preferred drug for curing osteoporosis has been used for a long time in clinic since it can inhibit the bone remodeling to decrease the risk of bone fracture and increase the bone density. But recent studies show that bisphosphates could cause the accumulation of microdamage to decrease bone quality. The long-term use of bisphosphates may reduce the bone toughness and weaken the mechanical properties of bone. Some clinical reports have indicated that patients with osteoporosis tend to have non-traumatic fractures after their use of bisphosphates. This article will review the effect of bisphosphates on the microdamage and mechanical properties of bone.