Treatment of osteogenesis imperfecta with the bisphosphonate olpadronate (dimethylaminohydroxypropylidene bisphosphonate)

Abstract

Osteoporosis is an important feature of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). So far, no effective medical treatment is available. We treated three boys with severe OI type III and vertebral deformities for 5–7 years with continuous oral administration of the bisphosphonate, olpadronate. Treatment resulted in a decreased number of bone fractures, an increased calcification of the long bones and an amelioration of vertebral shape. No side-effects were encountered.

Conclusion These preliminary but long-term obser- vations suggest that the bisphosphonate olpadronate may be a useful treatment for patients with OI and vertebral fractures. Bisphosphonates may be promi- sing drugs for children with OI.