Studies published by drug companies exaggerate the benefit of osteoporosis drugs to women who do not have the disease, according to a report published in the journal BMJ.
Drug companies attempt to erase the distinction between osteoporosis and pre-osteoporosis, also known as osteopenia, the report said. But because the risk of fractures is so low in patients with osteopenia, they do not actually need drugs and may needlessly be exposed to potentially dangerous side effects.
Approximately half of all women have symptoms of osteopenia, the report says. Osteoporosis drugs are now officially being marketed to this population in Europe.
Drug Companies Exaggerate Benefits of Osteoporosis Drugs to Women
