Important aspects concerning alendronate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws: a literature review.

Objective: To conduct a literature review on sodium alendronate, focusing on osteonecrosis of the jaws, a serious potential side effect.
Background: Sodium alendronate is a bisphosphonate that is widely used for the treatment of osteopenia, osteoporosis and Paget's disease. Like other bisphosphonates, it inhibits bone resorption by inactivating osteoclasts. Alendronate has evident benefits in the treatment of these diseases, but it is associated with jaw osteonecrosis, although less frequently compared with intravenous bisphosphonates. Therefore, some preventive measures should be taken to avoid this side effect.
Material and Methods: We reviewed the literature regarding the pharmacological aspects, mechanism of action, indications of use and side effects of sodium alendronate, as well as the management of patients under this therapy.
Conclusion: The benefits of sodium alendronate are scientifically proven, but a serious adverse effect is osteonecrosis. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare the oral cavity before bisphosphonate therapy, providing a careful dental evaluation and all needed dental treatment.
(© 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S and The Gerodontology Society. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)